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 and your family history in order to understand your goals for treatment. Empathy for my clients and offering different ways to look at your issues with the utmost respect for your feelings about the situation is what you will receive from me.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
I enjoy working with people to help them to better communicate with each other in order to improve their relationships and live happier lives. I come from a mindfulness background and teach Buddhist meditation skills to my clients. I also have special training and am certificated in DBT to better help people who have mood disorders, anxiety, and depression. Working with people who have relationship problems using Gottman and Emotionally Focused Therapy is my specialty. Having the ability to listen carefully to people and respond in a helpful manner in order to help clients address their particular needs in a way that brings about change is my goal. I look forward to doing this for you.