New to Grow
Genesis Lightbourne is a licensed clinical social work/therapist born and raised in Las Vegas, Nevada. Bringing over 12 years of experience in the social services field, having begun her career immediately after graduating from Iowa State University (Go Cyclones!). Throughout her career, Genesis has had the opportunity to work across a wide range of settings, which has deepened her appreciation for the meaningful impact of this work. "My values include lifelong learning and spending time outdoors while exploring new hobbies and interests." As a basketball enthusiast, I discovered an equally strong passion for the social work and mental health field early in my professional journey crediting much of my growth to the mentors who have supported and guided me along the way. What I value most about being a mental health professional is that each day offers a fresh opportunity to bring positive energy, intention, and resilience to life’s challenges. My clinical focus includes stress management and coping skills, effective communication, strength-based approaches, and self-expression. Genesis is available for sessions during late afternoons and evenings on weekdays, as well as on weekends—particularly Saturdays. She values collaborative session planning and looks forward to tailoring her approach to align with each client’s individual goals, interests, and strengths.
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
In your first session, expect a supportive and structured conversation focused on getting to know all that is you—not just your challenges, but your strengths as well. We’ll start by talking about what brings you in, what you’ve been experiencing, and what you’d like to get out of therapy. I’ll ask some questions to better understand your thoughts, emotions, and patterns, but there’s no pressure to share everything at once—we move at your pace. Because I use a strengths-based CBT approach, we’ll also begin identifying what’s already working for you—your coping skills, personal qualities, and past successes. These strengths will help guide our work together.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
Therapy with me is collaborative within session. This approach assists people see meaningful progress, develop confidence, and leave with tools they can use independently long after therapy ends and moving at their pace when working together.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
I am best positioned to work with teens, adults, and older adults who are looking for practical tools to better manage stress, emotions, and life transitions. Using a strengths-based CBT approach, I work especially well with individuals who want more than just a space to talk—they want to actively build skills and see change in their daily lives. My approach is a strong fit for people who are open to learning and practicing new ways of thinking and responding, and who want to build on their existing strengths rather than focus only on problems.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
As we work together, we will use principles from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which focuses on how thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are interconnected. Ie. An active approach that helps learn how to respond differently to difficult situations. A helpful way to understand the process is to think of it like training for a sport. In our sessions, we “practice” specific mental skills—such as identifying unhelpful thought patterns, challenging cognitive distortions, and developing more balanced, realistic perspectives. This is done in a structured and supportive environment, similar to drills in practice. Outside of sessions is where the real change happens. Just like in a game, real-life situations naturally bring up stress, self-doubt, or strong emotions. Instead of reacting automatically, the ability to apply the tools we’ve practiced within session—pausing, evaluating thoughts, and choosing responses that are more aligned with overall goals and well-being. Clinically, this process is known as cognitive restructuring and behavioral change, supported by the brain’s ability to adapt (neuroplasticity). What initially feels effortful gradually becomes more automatic, leading to more consistent emotional regulation and improved functioning. Helping to build these skills as to not be dependent on therapy long-term, but instead leave with practical tools to be used independently in everyday life.
Strength-Based
Focused on recognizing and build on the strengths already present. Identifying existing strengths—like resilience, insight, or determination—and use them as the foundation for change. The goal is not just to manage difficulties, but to help feel more confident, capable, and equipped to handle challenges resourcefully and independently.