Hi, my name is Vijaya Siddalingappa also known as VJ. I am a licensed clinical psychologist PhD, and currently practice in Florida. I have been in the mental health field for 25 years. I speak 2 additional languages( Hindi and Kannada) and I am currently offering telehealth appointments. I am very happy to be a part of the Grow community! I have a holistic approach with a non judgmental stance as I believe each individual is unique. So I tailor interventions to client's needs and not use "one size fits all" approach. I have an unconditional approach and appreciate diversity in each person accentuating their strengths. I use passive approach (providing space for venting their feelings) and an active approach by teaching cognitive behavioral skills which clients can easily learn and use these skills when needed. I like to cook, exercise, watch football and volunteer at community events for the less fortunate. I maintain a healthy balance with work, recreation and self- care. I work hard and play hard! My experience includes working with adults, geriatrics, children and women in outpatient and inpatient settings. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, (CBT); Dialectical Behavioral therapy (DBT); Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT); and Trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TFCBT). I am also passionate about individual differences and multicultural studies. My expertise is working with addictions (dual diagnosis), trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar, Obsessive compulsive disorders, schizophrenia, domestic violence and sexual abuse, stress management, loss and grief, and adjustment disorders. We never arrive! I learn something new and grow every day. Look forward to working with you!
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
In our first session , we will get to know about each other and together, we will set a plan to dive into the challenges you may be facing.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
I have a direct approach and I am solution focused. However, I have a collaborative team approach with my clients and work on goals that are realistic and achievable. I initially explore early experiences that may have impacted current functioning and I utilize a wholistic approach with focus on mind-body connection. I take each client in their context and meet them where they are at.
About VJ Raj
Specializes in
Licensed in
Accepts
Appointments
VirtualMy treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I initially explore the etiology of what maybe the potential cause of thoughts and behaviors. Instead of treating the symptom with a band aid, it would be productive to explore the source of the challenges we are facing. You will also learn how to identify negative thinking and change it to positive thinking. I utilize a psyco-educational process to learn about one's behaviors. When we are able to understand how we think, feel and act, we are able to change it. I use a collaborative approach by involving the client and work together in a non judgmental way.
Person-centered (Rogerian)
I see each individual as unique and special in their own ways. I try to understand the individual's perspective rather than imposing on them what I believe to be correct.