Welcome! I am Reina Michelle, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in helping people who are going through difficult times in their lives. I help by being a good listener and teaching communication skills that can make a big difference in improving their relationships with others. I also am experienced in working with people who have anxiety, depression, chronic illness and mood disorders as I have been certified in DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy) treatment. Sometimes we need a little help when life becomes too difficult to handle on our own. Looking at our problems from a different perspective can make a difference in becoming able to live harmoniously with our family and friends. I have a Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology from JFK University in San Jose, CA. I live in Santa Cruz, CA, and have worked with clients throughout Northern California for over 15 years.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
In our first session we will discuss the issues that bring you to therapy in order to understand your goals for treatment. It is then important to take a look at one's family history to see how that might have impact on the problems that people have today. I offer clients different perspectives to look at their issues with the utmost respect for your feelings about the situation is what you will receive from me. I have empathy for my clients and sincerely want to help them to resolve conflicts and live happier lives.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
I enjoy working with people to help them to better communicate with one another in order to improve their relationships with others. I teach skills for better communication and use role play in some instances to better understanding. I sometimes give homework assignments to practice what they have learned. Coming from a mindfulness background I teach meditation skills to my clients in order to bring calmness into the lives of busy people who need it. I have special training and am certificated in DBT to better help people who have mood disorders, anxiety, and depression. My specialty is to work with individuals and couples who have relationship problems using Gottman and Emotionally Focused Therapy. The ability to listen carefully and respond in a helpful manner has been my focus in treating clients who need help in order to bring change into their lives. I look forward to doing this for you.
Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.
Primarily I work with couples and individuals with relationship problems, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, chronic illness and alcohol and drug abuse problems. I have worked successfully with men clients ages 18-50 and would like to continue helping more to improve their lives when going through difficult times.