Sophie Peterson
Sophie Peterson
(she/her)
Welcome! I'm glad you're here. I'm a dedicated and compassionate Social Worker with a Master's in Social Work from The University of Chicago. My journey in this field has equipped me with extensive training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and other strength-based models. I have a rich background in individual counseling, group facilitation, and crisis intervention, particularly in supporting those dealing with mental health and substance use challenges. Growing up in France and traveling the world from a young age has provided me with a unique multicultural perspective that deeply informs my practice. I am committed to helping families navigate the intellectual, emotional, and physical complexities associated with co-occurring disorders. I believe in the power of strong relationships and community connections to foster resilience and empower individuals to address their own needs effectively. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you and support your journey towards healing and well-being.
Get to know me
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
In our initial session together, you can expect a warm and welcoming atmosphere where you're invited to share your story and begin your journey toward healing and growth. I focus on building a strong therapeutic connection from the start, prioritizing trust and rapport as the foundation of our work. This first session is a space for you to openly express your concerns, goals, and hopes in a safe, confidential environment—free of judgment or pressure. Through active listening and compassionate curiosity, I aim to fully understand your experiences and challenges. Together, we’ll begin to explore your strengths, values, and areas where you’d like to grow, laying the groundwork for a treatment plan tailored specifically to you. By the end of our session, my hope is that you feel heard, validated, and empowered as you take the first step toward meaningful change.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
My greatest strengths as a therapist lie in my deep commitment to building genuine connections and creating a safe, supportive space where healing can take root. I lead with empathy and compassion, always striving to meet you where you are in your journey and walk alongside you with kindness and understanding. I draw from a diverse range of therapeutic modalities and evidence-based practices, tailoring each treatment plan to your unique needs and goals. I’m committed to ongoing learning and professional growth so I can offer you the most up-to-date, high-quality care. At the heart of my work is a true passion for helping others and a strong belief in your inherent resilience and capacity for growth. That belief guides every aspect of my practice and supports you in stepping into your fullest potential and creating a more fulfilling life.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
I am best positioned to serve clients who are seeking compassionate support and guidance in navigating the complexities of anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and trauma. My expertise lies in working with individuals who are ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing, regardless of their background or circumstances. Whether facing the challenges of managing overwhelming emotions, rebuilding trust in relationships, or processing past traumas, I offer a non-judgmental and empathetic space for clients to explore their experiences and work towards positive change. My approach is tailored to meet the unique needs and goals of each individual, empowering them to cultivate resilience, enhance self-awareness, and foster meaningful connections in their lives.
About Sophie Peterson
Sophie Peterson offers therapy covered by Blue Shield of California - Medi-Cal, Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plan (Medi-Cal), CalViva Health (Medi-Cal), Community Health Plan of Imperial Valley (Medi-Cal), Gold Coast Health Plan (Medi-Cal), Health Net (Medi-Cal), Health Plan of San Joaquin - Medi-Cal, L.A. Care Health Plan (Medi-Cal), Partnership HealthPlan of California (Medi-Cal), San Francisco Health Plan (Medi-Cal) and Santa Clara Family Health Plan - Medi-Cal in California.
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VirtualMy treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
In my practice, I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as a foundational approach to address various mental health concerns. With extensive experience and training in CBT, I utilize its principles and techniques to help clients identify and challenge negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to their distress. Through collaborative exploration and skill-building exercises, I assist clients in understanding the connections between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, empowering them to develop more adaptive coping strategies. I often incorporate cognitive restructuring techniques to challenge and reframe unhelpful beliefs, as well as behavioral activation to encourage engagement in meaningful activities that promote well-being. Additionally, I integrate homework assignments and self-monitoring tools to extend the therapeutic process beyond the session, fostering ongoing growth and progress. My goal with CBT is to equip clients with practical skills and insights that enable them to effectively manage symptoms, cultivate resilience, and achieve their therapeutic goals.
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
In my practice, I have experience in utilizing Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) as a powerful therapeutic approach to help clients cultivate psychological flexibility and promote overall well-being. ACT focuses on helping individuals develop mindfulness skills, clarify their values, and take committed action in line with those values, all while accepting the presence of difficult thoughts and emotions. I integrate ACT principles and techniques into therapy sessions to help clients effectively navigate life's challenges and create meaningful change. Through experiential exercises, metaphors, and mindfulness practices, I guide clients in observing their thoughts and emotions with greater acceptance and detachment, allowing them to disengage from unhelpful patterns of thought and behavior. I also work collaboratively with clients to clarify their values and set meaningful goals aligned with those values, empowering them to take intentional steps towards a more fulfilling life. Additionally, I emphasize the importance of committed action, encouraging clients to take small, manageable steps towards their goals, even in the presence of discomfort or uncertainty. Overall, my experience with ACT has shown me its effectiveness in helping clients build resilience, enhance self-awareness, and foster psychological well-being, leading to lasting positive change in their lives.
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
In my practice, I specialize in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), a powerful approach to strengthen emotional bonds and promote overall well-being. EFT helps clients understand and transform their emotional experiences, fostering secure and meaningful connections. By exploring and processing underlying emotions, clients can express their needs authentically and develop healthier interaction patterns. I create a supportive environment where clients engage in open communication and build stronger, empathetic relationships. My experience with EFT shows its effectiveness in improving emotional resilience, self-awareness, and relationship quality, leading to lasting positive change.