Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. I received my Masters from Florida State University and I have six years of experience as a social worker, primarily in the medical field. I specialize in supporting adults acute and chronic illnesses, as well as significant life changes. My expertise lies in equipping clients with coping strategies to navigate these challenges, empowering them to lead fulfilling lives despite their circumstances. I am straightforward, but compassionate as a therapist. If I have a question, I will ask it directly rather than making assumptions. I approach therapy with a focus on your strengths.
During our first session together, clients can anticipate a warm and welcoming environment aimed at fostering trust and rapport. I will begin by introducing myself and explaining the therapeutic process, including confidentiality and your rights as a client. I will encourage you to share your reasons for seeking therapy, your goals, and any pertinent background information. You can expect me to ask questions to gain a deeper understanding of your concerns, emotions, and experiences. Together, we'll work collaboratively to establish a treatment plan tailored to your needs and discuss what to expect in future sessions. I will prioritize creating a safe space where you will feel heard, validated, and supported.
Having worked with adults, my holistic approach and compassionate care empowers individuals to navigate complex psychosocial issues with resilience and dignity.
I enjoy supporting adults confronting acute and chronic illnesses, as well as significant life changes such as adjustments to new diagnoses, transitions in care settings, caregiver stress, grief and loss, and existential concerns. My clients often lack coping strategies to navigate these multifaceted challenges. My clients seek my expertise for support with managing the emotional toll of their conditions, adapting to lifestyle changes, and finding meaning and purpose.
Utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help clients manage conditions such as anxiety, depression, chronic pain, or adjusting to a life change, enhancing overall well-being. I employ CBT techniques such as cognitive restructuring and behavioral activation to empower clients in managing their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Through collaborative exploration, I assist clients in identifying and challenging maladaptive patterns, fostering meaningful and lasting change.
I apply Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) to facilitate rapid and goal-oriented progress with clients. Utilizing SFBT techniques, I prioritize identifying and amplifying clients' strengths and resources, fostering a collaborative and empowering therapeutic environment. Through targeted questioning and goal-setting, I assist clients in envisioning and working towards achievable solutions to their presenting issues.
I integrate Mindfulness-Based Therapy to promote clients' emotional well-being and self awareness. I guide clients in cultivating present-moment awareness through mindfulness techniques such as meditation, breathing exercises, and body scans. By paying attention, on purpose, to the present moment without judgement, I help clients develop greater resilience to stress and anxiety.
I incorporate exploring a client's early childhood experiences and unconscious motivations to understand how these factors influence their current behavior and emotional state. This could help clients identify and work through repressed emotions and internal conflicts that are impacting their mental health.
Everyone has negative thoughts. Utilizing ACT helps clients to develop psychological flexibility, encouraging them to embrace rather than avoid difficult emotions and experiences as part of their journey toward a more meaningful life.