Kelsey Hopson-Shiller
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who thinks everyone should try therapy at some point because therapy makes life easier! I've been an LCSW for over a decade and I've worked in schools, and the court system, and with treatment centers and in private practice.
I've been an LCSW for over a decade and I've worked in schools, and the court system, and with treatment centers and in private practice.
I like people, and ( I know, it's corny) I feel so honored that my clients allow me to be a part of their lives and hear their stories. All of my clients are so brave and willing to work toward the lives they really want, and it never stops being so meaningful to be a part of that process.
First session
I always want to hear about what my client is expecting therapy to be. If they've done therapy previously, I'll ask what they liked or disliked, or found really effective, or what hasn't worked well for them. Some clients really need to talk about a pressing issue right away, some people need a little more time for us to get to know each other and either way is fine. Clients can ask me questions about me and my practice too!
Strengths
I try to create a really comfortable environment and I let the client lead. I will use humor whenever it's appropriate as I point out areas for growth or reflection. I focus on building strong rapport because I believe the best work happens in an environment where a client knows they can trust me- even when the work itself is uncomfortable.
Ideal clients
I do a lot of work with adults in their 20s, 30s, and 40s (although I also love working with teenagers!). My clients and I generally work on 'life stuff'- jobs, dating, partners, parenting, relationships with the people who raised them. Sometimes anxiety or depression interferes and I help them see how we work around those things to make all the other pieces of their lives more pleasant and fulfilling or again, just easier!
Treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
We'll use mind/body connections and confront cognitive distortions (I call them 'errors in your mental script') to disrupt anxious thinking or patterns of rumination.
Solution-Focused Brief Treatment
I make treatment goals with my clients and work toward them in our sessions. There's no pressure to 'solve' everything right away, but also the goal is not to have clients in therapy at the same frequency forever.
Strength-Based
My perspective is that my clients come to therapy with existing strengths and tools that we can build on to help make their lives easier.
Location
Virtual sessions
Identifies as
Top specialties
Other specialties
Serves
Licensed in
- CaliforniaLicense 74353