Hi! My name is Ms. Mica (or simply Mica). I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and a client-centered professional dedicated to improving mental health outcomes for the clients I serve. I am passionate about supporting individuals, couples and families in addressing challenges that stem from anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, relationship difficulties and other life issues. As a CSAYC therapist, I also provide specialized support for youth struggling with sexually maladaptive behaviors.
My clients can always expect to be greeted in a friendly manner. My goal is to create a comfortable atmosphere to help clients feel at ease. I will ask questions during the intake process to learn more about you, including your reason(s) for seeking therapy, your mental health history, significant stressors, personal and familial backgrounds, etc. Gathering this information helps me understand your unique situation and needs. I also discuss the therapeutic process, including my primary therapeutic modalities, rates, and session frequency. Clients are encouraged to ask questions and present concerns prior to the conclusion of the intake session, at which time I will summarize what we discussed and identify our next steps. After the session, clients should take some time to reflect on their experience. It is important to give yourself space to process what you discussed during your intake session. As you continue your journey, you’ll have the opportunity to explore your thoughts and feelings in a safe and supportive environment.
• Empathy and Compassion: I approach each client with genuine empathy and compassion, creating a safe space for them to share their thoughts and feelings. • Strong Communication Skills: Clear communication allows me to provide constructive feedback and adjust my approaches based on the client's reactions and needs. • Cultural Competence: I adapt my therapeutic approach to honor each client’s unique cultural context and lived experiences, ensuring that they feel seen and understood. • Evidence-Based Approaches: I utilize a range of evidence-based therapeutic modalities to provide effective treatment tailored to my clients' specific issues. • Commitment to Professional Development: I prioritize ongoing education and training in the mental health field to stay informed regarding the latest research and best practices, enhancing my effectiveness as a provider. • Patience: I approach therapy with patience, understanding that progress takes time while encouraging clients to embrace their own journey toward healing and growth. • Holistic Perspective: I consider the whole person in therapy, addressing not only mental health issues but also emotional, social, and environmental factors that impact well-being. These strengths combine to create a supportive, and client-centered therapeutic experience, which facilitates a strong therapeutic alliance and ultimately promotes healthier life outcomes for the client.
I have years of experience using CBT as my primary treatment modality. I provide ongoing psychoeducation and offer clients in-session activities that enhance their knowledge, understanding, and application of CBT techniques. This evidence-based approach has proven effective for various issues, including anxiety disorders, depression, and stress management. Its structured nature empowers clients to take control of their thoughts and behaviors, and facilitates lasting change.
I have years of experience utilizing Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) as a primary treatment modality, particularly for clients with antisocial personality disorder and other mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. DBT is a specialized form of cognitive-behavioral therapy designed to help individuals manage intense emotional responses and improve interpersonal relationships. Additionally, I focus on teaching clients the four core skills of DBT: mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness.
Solutions-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) is a goal-oriented intervention that emphasizes finding solutions in the present and exploring hope for the future rather than delving deeply into past problems. I utilize SFBT to support clients in leveraging their strengths and identifying solutions that can lead to positive changes in a relatively short time frame, making it an appealing choice for many clients seeking immediate results.
Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) is an evidence-based treatment specifically designed for children and adolescents who have experienced trauma. I utilize TF-CBT to support clients in reducing symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and behavioral issues in children and adolescents.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a therapeutic approach designed to help individuals process and heal from traumatic experiences. As a newly trained EMDR therapist, my experience is limited, yet I am confident in my ability to guide clients through this evidence-based method, which integrates elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy with bilateral stimulation, typically through guided eye movements. EMDR helps facilitate the reprocessing of these memories, reducing their emotional charge and enabling clients to develop healthier coping skills.