Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker- currently licensed in NC and seeking licensure in Georgia. I am also a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist Associate. I received my Masters from the University of Georgia and have been practicing since 2020. Outside of seeing clients, I love being active and outdoors when possible. If funds were unlimited, I would probably have 12 different memberships to fitness related activities because that is what brings me joy! As a therapist, I believe I bring a compassionate and calm energy to the space I share with clients. I show up as my authentic self which means I can be a little irreverent, I will gently challenge you, and I will probably laugh at jokes that, as a therapist, I shouldn't. I am not a "blank slate" kind of therapist, but I also won't tell you what choices you should make as I believe the client is the expert in their own life. I walk along side my clients and hold space where you need it- whether that is you needing an empathetic ear or assistance with making life changing decisions. I recognize that it is a privilege to do what I do. I look forward walking along side you!
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
During our first session we will discuss some therapy 101 basics- I like to call these housekeeping items. The housekeeping bit is brief, but important for clients to understand consent, mandated reporting expectations, and some of my own boundaries as a therapist. A lot of these items you are likely familiar with if you've participated in therapy. Next, we will move on to what brings you in! What was the straw that broke the camel's back? What made you decide to make this investment in yourself? We will then explore some personal history- touch on family dynamics, previous history of treatment, what's working for you right now versus what's not. I am always curious to ask about previous interactions with therapists and what approaches were effective or ineffective for you as well. We will then work on goals, talk about how frequently you'd like to meet, and address any questions or concerns you might have about moving forward.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
I think my greatest strengths as a provider would be that I am able to be fully present with each of my clients, listening, validating, and providing compassion and a non-judgmental lens during every interaction. I have been known to cry along with my clients and I think that attests to my genuine nature. I do believe I am able to help clients become their own advocate. I have successfully assisted clients with setting aside stories of judgement and shame, and replacing those worn out stories or self-talk with curiosity and kindness.
Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.
I have a passion for working with those struggling with substance use disorders or even folks who are exploring their relationship with alcohol, other drugs, or, what we call in the field, process addictions like porn use, gambling, video games, etc. I also enjoy working with individuals who are seeking support with navigating challenging relationships, making life transitions, processing trauma, or moving through grief and loss. I am LGBTQ+ affirming and understand the importance of creating a safe, supportive space for all people.
About Maggie Timmerman
Specializes in
Serves ages
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Appointments
VirtualMy treatment methods
Eclectic
In my opinion, therapy isn't a one-size-fits-all experience. I enjoy walking along side of folks, meeting them where they are at, which means tailoring therapy interventions to meet the unique needs of each client. Sometimes I pull from psychodynamic, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy just to name a few approaches. It truly depends on what the client is needing in the moment.
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
I am not formally trained in ACT, but I pull from different interventions offered through this treatment method. I find it helpful for clients to bring awareness to their values to aid them with finding direction and solutions to their own problems/challenges which is a core principle of ACT. Additionally, as it's stated in the method's name, I like to aid clients with practicing acceptance and sometimes just embracing reality! Sometimes, the harder we push against things, the more suffering we can cause ourselves. Acceptance isn't about loving or liking a decision or situation, but allowing it to be what it is.
Psychodynamic
Psychodynamic can be a great approach in better understanding ourselves. Sometimes those early experiences we are not consciously aware of can inform how we navigate the world and our relationships with others. I find that it is helpful to revisit childhood experiences, household dynamics, early relationships to establish understanding and compassion for ourselves as well as some of the folks we connect harmful experiences to. I enjoy using this modality to aid clients with reframing shame and blame associated with past versions of themselves or others.
Trauma Informed Care
Trauma Informed Care is a consistent work in progress- I am continuously working towards better understanding how trauma can impact the whole person, physically, mentally, and emotionally. As write this description, I am actively working on training in CPT- Cognitive Processing Therapy, which is an effective treatment for PTSD. Every individual is unique when it comes to the impact trauma can have so like my more eclectic approach, I am meeting clients where they are at, offering education around the effectives of trauma, and exploring ways to assist individuals with finding peace and resolve which could entail boundary setting, communication techniques, self-care approaches, or other avenues to processing/making meaning and finding understanding.
Motivational Interviewing
Motivational interviewing is a go-to for me, especially working with those struggling with addiction, substance misuse, process addictions (porn use, gambling, gaming, shopping, etc.). I will help clients assess their readiness to change, explore the barriers that are getting in their way of progress, and considering what life might look like without these challenges getting in the way. Of course, there's lots to uncover when a person is struggling with substance misuse/addiction, but I find this approach very helpful and of course, non-judgmental.