My dream therapeutic client is someone who is ready and willing to invest in their emotional well-being and engage fully in the therapeutic process. They are motivated to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences with openness and curiosity, even when it feels uncomfortable. These clients are committed to understanding and addressing the root causes of their challenges, rather than avoiding or suppressing their feelings. They value the opportunity to process emotions, build self-awareness, and develop healthier coping strategies. Whether working through past traumas, navigating life transitions, or striving for personal growth, they embrace the journey with a willingness to reflect, take accountability, and make meaningful changes. Ultimately, these clients recognize that emotional healing is not a quick fix but a process, and they are eager to partner with me in creating a more fulfilling, balanced, and authentic life.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
Introductions and Comfort: We’ll start by getting to know each other. I’ll explain my approach to therapy, what they can expect from our sessions, and answer any questions they may have. Exploring Their Story: I’ll invite them to share what brought them to therapy and the challenges they’re facing. This is a space for them to talk openly and at their own pace—there’s no pressure to share more than they feel comfortable. Setting Goals: Together, we’ll begin identifying the goals they want to work toward, whether it’s emotional healing, managing stress, or building healthier relationships. Establishing a Plan: I’ll explain how we’ll approach therapy moving forward, including any specific methods or techniques that align with their needs (e.g., CBT, Motivational Interviewing). Creating a Safe Space: Above all, I emphasize creating a judgment-free, collaborative space where they feel empowered to explore their emotions and begin their journey toward growth. By the end of the first session, clients often feel a sense of relief from being heard and understood, as well as hope and clarity about the steps ahead.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
ne of my greatest strengths as a provider is my ability to help clients recognize and embrace their own strengths, even when they may not see them at first. I create a supportive and empathetic space where clients feel heard and valued through active listening, allowing them to share their experiences without judgment. In addition to fostering self-awareness, I equip clients with practical tools and strategies tailored to their unique needs, empowering them to navigate challenges and build emotional resilience. My goal is not just to help clients address immediate concerns but to provide them with lifelong skills they can use to thrive and maintain their well-being long after therapy has ended.
Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.
I am best positioned to serve clients who are seeking a compassionate, supportive, and structured approach to improving their emotional well-being. My ideal clients are: Women: Women navigating challenges such as work-life balance, self-esteem, anxiety, trauma, and life transitions. I specialize in creating a safe space where they can explore their identities, overcome emotional barriers, and build resilience. Adolescents: Teens facing challenges with self-identity, peer relationships, academic pressures, or emotional regulation. I use developmentally appropriate techniques to help them gain confidence, manage stress, and develop healthier thought patterns and behaviors. Families: Families looking to improve communication, resolve conflicts, or navigate major transitions. I work to strengthen family dynamics by fostering mutual understanding and equipping members with tools to work together effectively. My approach is most effective for clients who are ready to invest in their growth, open to self-reflection, and willing to engage in the therapeutic process. I thrive in helping individuals and families who are committed to addressing emotional roadblocks and creating sustainable change.
About Cerissa Bartlett
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Accepts cash
Appointments
VirtualMy treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
In my private practice, I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to support women, adolescents, and families in navigating challenges and achieving their goals. By focusing on the connection between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, I help clients identify negative thought patterns and replace them with healthier, more constructive alternatives. For women, CBT is often used to address stress, anxiety, and self-esteem issues, empowering them with tools to manage triggers and build resilience. With adolescents, I incorporate developmentally appropriate strategies to address concerns such as peer pressure, academic stress, and self-identity challenges. In family work, CBT techniques foster improved communication, reduce conflict, and encourage collaborative problem-solving, creating stronger, healthier family dynamics. By tailoring interventions to each client’s unique needs, I empower them to develop practical skills and lasting strategies for personal growth and well-being.
Motivational Interviewing
In my private practice, I leverage Motivational Interviewing (MI) to empower my members by fostering a collaborative, client-centered approach that strengthens their motivation and commitment to change. By focusing on their intrinsic values and goals, I guide individuals through ambivalence, helping them clarify their aspirations and identify actionable steps toward achieving them. For women, MI provides a safe space to explore challenges related to self-care, work-life balance, and personal growth. With adolescents, it promotes autonomy by encouraging them to articulate their goals and build confidence in making healthy decisions. In family dynamics, MI enhances communication by validating each member’s perspective while fostering a shared commitment to positive change. This evidence-based approach allows me to meet clients where they are, respecting their readiness to change while supporting their progress toward meaningful, sustainable transformations.