Hello! I am a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC) in the state of Massachusetts. I have my BA in psychology and MA in forensic mental health counseling. I have worked with several mental health organizations including emergency services, inpatient psychiatric hospital, and treatment based prison. I have worked with a variety of individuals experiencing acute mental health episodes, addiction, grief, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, etc. Since I have worked with a diverse client population, I have been exposed to how mental health conditions can present and how those mental health conditions can be stabilized. My main approaches to working with clients are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Existential Therapy because they are goal oriented. I believe it’s important for each client to set goals for themselves and be able to discuss these goals in a supportive, nonjudgmental environment.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
In our first session we will have an introductory conversation regarding your current mental health symptoms, goals that you have for yourself, and barriers you may have experienced when trying to accomplish your goals. I am open to answering any questions you may have regarding your treatment moving forward. I also like to provide homework to keep you committed and help practice mindfulness between sessions so you do not forget or lose motivation towards the goals you have set for yourself.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
Since I have mainly worked with those in acute mental health settings, I have become comfortable meeting people where they’re at in terms of their current mental health needs. I have worked with those at their absolute lowest times and have collaborated with them to identify what they need in order to maintain stabilization. After identifying their needs and goals, we collaborate on an action plan. The action plan is designed to meet their needs and goals while also maintaining stabilization. I enjoy collaborating with my clients and empowering themselves during their therapeutic journey.
About Anastaxia Kirkpatrick
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VirtualMy treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
CBT promotes active participation and collaboration during treatment. The CBT approach assists with recognizing and defusing the negative thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that develop when the brain is overwhelmed. CBT is goal oriented and problem focused. Some treatment approaches that I implement include homework, journaling, and positive self-talk. These approaches provide a constructive treatment plan and ensures the client is committed to their treatment.
Forensic Psychology
I have completed a BA in psychology and a MA with focus on forensic mental health counseling. I have worked in both prison and hospital settings with forensic patients. My primary focus when working with those currently, or previously, involved in the criminal justice system is to assist with acceptance and implementing change. Those who are, or have been, involved with the criminal justice system are often apprehensive towards receiving mental health counseling. I offer a compassionate and honest approach to promote acceptance and change with my clients.
Existential
Existential therapy focuses on responsibility, meaning, isolation, and focus. I personally like the existential approach as this approach focuses on inevitable human experiences. I offer a nonjudgmental, safe environment to explore the clients thoughts related to their human experience and the complex feelings that come along with that experience. This approach is focused on the present and working towards a meaningful future.