My theoretical approach is strengths-based and maintains the belief that individuals are the best experts of their own truth. I encourage my clients to communicate their insights on improving their lives while providing empathy, warm approachability, and an open-minded space. I believe that counseling is experiential, and that clients will gain insight and understanding through therapeutic work and practice. I have faith in our individual and collective ability to manage the life we see fit for ourselves.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
Our first session will be mostly information gathering and paperwork review. We will go over expectations for therapy, and I will also be able to get to know you and your history to better our rapport and direction. Next, we will create a plan for our work together and begin that process thereafter.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
My number one goal at the outset is you feeling that our connection is a good fit. The therapeutic alliance is the number one indicator of success in counseling, so I do my best to be there for you in a kind, open-minded, and accepting way. I believe that I create a safe space for all thoughts, feelings, and vulnerabilities to exist and be supported. We are all humans with many universalities, and I also honor all of the nuances, multicultural differences, and unique parts of ourselves that make us who we are.
About Amanda Jacobson
Identifies as
Specializes in
Serves ages
Licensed in
Accepts
Address
800 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, Suite 217Appointments
Virtual & in-personMy treatment methods
Mindfulness-Based Therapy
Mindfulness is an effective, holistic approach in therapy that supports management of anxiety, stress reduction, depression, mood lability, and distress tolerance. Mindful awareness encourages looking within oneself to find peace and self-compassion, by fostering empowerment and discovering the tools we already have within. By being mindful of our thoughts, emotions, and sensations, we can create and restore stability by tuning our attention to the present moment. Mindfulness-based Therapy is also evidence-based and includes somatic coping skills like breathwork and mind-body techniques.
Psychoeducation
Neuroscience helps us understand the brain and body's functioning so we can better manage ourselves from the inside out. When we have perspective to see how our physical signs and symptoms are communicating with us, we can take care of ourselves better and more effectively. Having insight into the brain's systems and processes can also help us settle heavy thoughts and feelings as well as activate the senses to promote calm and relaxation.
Motivational Interviewing
Motivational Interviewing is an evidence-based approach that encourages determination to make positive changes in one's life. I use MI to help identify discrepancies in thinking that can help clients create new perspective and decision-making within situations that have been stagnant or habitual for too long. The MI approach also invites warm and non-judgmental discussion to help clients arrive at their own catalyst for change while being supported along the way. This modality can be especially helpful for people struggling with substance abuse or unhealthy behaviors.
Trauma-Focused CBT
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy works with the connection between thoughts, feelings and behaviors. Understanding the intersections between these aspects of lived experience helps create awareness and insight into how small changes support bigger steps in creating lasting change. Trauma-Focused CBT integrates a lens of safety which helps clients navigate and process traumatic elements of past situations that help heal old wounds and promote strength in experiencing emotional and physiological sensations in the here and now.
Person-centered (Rogerian)
Person-centered is a framework where the counselor follows alongside the client in session. This means that I do not come in with an agenda, rather empower my client to process their lived experiences at their pace and through the lens of their entire self. The course of treatment is determined by the client, supported by my guidance and expertise alongside to foster growth and change. Highlighting the client's strengths and encouraging self-reflection is also part of my role within this modality.