Rebecca Stephens
Welcome! I help clients gain awareness of their feelings and unhelpful behaviors that can result in disconnection and suffering. I offer a non-judgmental, person-centered approach and incorporate interventions from evidenced-based models including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). My work in residential and outpatient treatment centers has given me the opportunity to help people recovering from eating disorders, as well as those struggling with debilitating anxiety, chronic suicidality, PTSD, and other mental health challenges.
Person-Centered Therapy Solution-focused Therapy Motivational Interviewing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT)
First session
In our first session, I will ask you to share with me your reasons for seeking therapy. While I will have already reviewed your intake assessments prior to the first session, I want to hear more about your current struggles and expectations for therapy. I will ask about what has/hasn't been helpful with any previous therapists, and will explain my style and approach. I will encourage you to ask me any questions that may help you decide if I am the best fit therapist for you.
Strengths
I've been told I'm easy to talk to and come across as a "real human" rather than a robotic, stuffy clinician. ;)
Ideal clients
I love working with young adults (roughly ages 18-35) making the transition into adulthood. I'm here to help guide clients through the college experience, moving out on their own, establishing careers, and finding their personal identities. Maybe past traumas or complicated family dynamics are holding you back. I want to help you get back on your feet.
Treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is considered the gold-standard treatment for depression, anxiety, and many other common mental health issues. I can help you become aware of some of your potentially distorted thought patterns and teach you how to challenge and re-frame thoughts to alleviate depression and anxiety. We'll also focus on changing maladaptive behaviors that may be contributing to your suffering.
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
I find that Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) is more appealing to people who may not jive with CBT. Regarding CBT, I sometimes hear "I don't want to be told my thoughts are wrong and need to be changed!" While CBT is more complex than that, I understand the criticisms. By contrast, ACT focuses on whether or not thoughts are helpful, and teaches strategies for how to "de-fuse" from unhelpful thoughts. If you find that an ACT approach resonates with you, we will also spend time on emotion acceptance, values exploration, and taking committed action towards those values.
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) is yet another acronymed modality from the cognitive-behavioral family! DBT is practical, skills-based therapy that teaches mindfulness, emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness. While I do not currently offer comprehensive DBT in my private practice (i.e., individual therapy, plus weekly skills groups, and 24/7 skills coaching), I often bring up relevant DBT concepts and teach skills to clients when it feels appropriate.
Motivational Interviewing
Motivational interviewing (MI) is a counseling method that can help elicit positive change within clients that can be especially helpful for those struggling with substance use or other addictive behaviors. I am trained in this method and find myself using MI principles and techniques often in my sessions.
Person-centered (Rogerian)
At my core, I am a person-centered therapist. I believe therapy is a collaborative partnership between therapist and client, where I support you in working towards your goals. I show up to sessions as a fellow human being with my own vulnerabilities that have helped inform my approach.
Location
Virtual sessions
Identifies as
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Serves
Licensed in
- CaliforniaLicense 129100