Are you struggling with feelings of anxiety, depression or other uncomfortable emotions? Has something happened in your life recently (or even long ago) that is causing you distress, interfering perhaps with your work, school, relationships or otherwise? To begin with, you're not alone! Also, there is help available. I'm Lynn, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the states of Maryland and Florida. I've been a practicing psychotherapist for the past 25 years. Having worked in private practice, hospitals, mental health centers and hospice, I am familiar and comfortable working with all ages, stages of life, sexual orientation, cultural and ethnic backgrounds. I have found the single most important factor in achieving successful outcomes in counseling is the connection between therapist and client. Therefore, I strive to bring my authentic, caring, and non judgmental self to each and every encounter I have with my clients. My diverse therapeutic background allows me to use multiple modalities in counseling clients. I strive to tailor my counseling techniques to match each individual's needs. Typically, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as Dialectical Behavior Therapy help clients grow, gain insights into their behavior(s) as well as others and gain tools and skills in managing difficult emotions or situations in their lives. Deciding to enter into counseling can be a scary thought for many. If you are thinking about therapy, I encourage you to give yourself the gift of self-care and good mental and emotional health by taking that first step. I look forward to meeting and working with you!
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
During our first visit, my goal is to find out what brings you to counseling. There are not "right" or "wrong" reasons for seeking help. For counseling to be effective, it is imperative that the therapist meets the client where they are....and not where the therapist thinks or feels they "should" be. I listen with an open, non- judgmental, objective mind in order to fully understand what you are needing from me in order to help you reach your mental health goals.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
Helping clients feel better about themselves, recognizing their strengths and helping them gain the tools and skills needed to cope with the challenges of their lives energizes me. When clients make strides, gain insights, adapt healthier behaviors and coping mechanisms, and feel more confident in managing their lives in general, that is a reason for celebration. I've often said that everyone could utilize counseling in their lives at times, but due to barriers including taboos, lack of resources, geographical issues, etc...not everyone is able to avail themselves of this. Knowing it's not always easy to access care and overcome any barriers you may have encountered along the way, I respect your time and effort that we spend together. I welcome feedback from every client, both positive or negative in order to continue my growth as a therapist.