Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. I received my social work Masters degree from CSU Sacramento and have been a practicing full-time therapist for over 7 years, working primarily with adults of all ages. I previously worked with adolescents and children, both in the public school system and in the foster care system (social work case management-type work). I previously worked in residential treatment with probationary adolescents as well as those with emotional-behavioral struggles.

What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?

In my first meeting with a client, I introduce myself and discuss my approach to therapy, goal setting, working with clients, etc. I explain confidentiality, mandatory reporting, etc. I let the client know at the outset that our session (first appointment) will be an intake during which I will be asking them a fair number of questions about their history, experiences, etc. Early in this intake will be my inquiring as to their reasons for currently pursuing therapy, etc. I also inform clients that they may ask questions at any time, but that there will be time available at the end if they have other questions, etc.

Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.

One of my greatest strengths as a provider is that I have been in the (social work) field for over 35 years. I have worked with people from many different backgrounds, cultures, and experiences. Ironically, this experience has taught me as much about myself as it has other people, in that I have come to see myself in the experiences others have with me. Working in a variety of settings with many different populations over the years has taught me the importance of building a positive working rapport with others. To support my part in this process, I have needed to develop a greater awareness of myself, including my own strengths and weakness, the good and “not so good,” etc. I have become more familiar with concepts like acceptance and humility, etc. To sum up, this journey has helped me to land in a place where I am better able to both connect with clients and support them on their own journey.

Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.

My approach to therapy is large part based on building a positive working rapport between myself and my clients. I ask my clients what it is they want to work on. I collaborate with them to identify realistic goals for themselves. As a therapist, I see my job as finding the right balance of providing guidance and support to my clients. Specifically, I think it is important to be invested in our clients’ progress, but only as much as they are needing from us as the success must belong to them when they reach their goals.

About Timothy Masterson

Appointments