Stephanie D. McVea

LPC, 15 years of experience
No reviews yet

New to Grow

VirtualAvailable

As human beings, our experiences are unique to us. We experience and view the world from our lens, which impacts how we perceive ourselves and others. Unfortunately, because we are all unique, people around us also develop perceptions about us which may not be an accurate representation of who we are or our true intentions. Sometimes, our perceptions lead to miscommunication and misconceptions; thereby impacting our ability to connect and develop healthy relationships. Typically, perceptions are based on our experiences and our experiences are not always favorable or pleasant. Occasionally, our experiences are traumatic and abusive. For some, trauma and abuse occur so regularly that it becomes the norm and ultimately impacts social, interpersonal, and intimate relationships. Counseling is the process of becoming awakened to our true selves to better understand how our personal experiences influence who we are. Our personal experiences are impacted by our family of origin, racial and cultural/ethnic group, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, etc. Because many aspects of one’s life may be explored, including childhood experiences, the process of counseling may feel uncomfortable and intrusive, at times. However, it is important to trust the process and know that every counseling session will not feel good. There are times that as a client, you may feel sad or hurt and become tearful; you may be excited and feel happy; you may be confused and feel hopeless. However, know that in the end, if you trust the process, you will hopefully learn something new about yourself that you never considered. Thus, leading to fulfillment in your life in areas including your relationships and family dynamics that ultimately, enhance your self-worth.

Get to know me

In our first session together, here's what you can expect

Clients can expect their first therapy session to be a supportive and welcoming conversation focused on getting to know them and understanding their concerns, goals, and reasons for seeking therapy. During the session, I may ask questions about personal history, current challenges, emotional well-being, relationships, coping skills, and any previous counseling experiences. The first session is also an opportunity for clients to ask questions, discuss expectations for therapy, and begin building a comfortable therapeutic relationship. Together, we will identify initial goals and create a plan that supports the client’s individual needs, growth, and overall well-being. My approach is centered on providing a safe, respectful, and nonjudgmental environment where clients feel heard, supported, and empowered throughout the therapeutic process.

The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions

My greatest strengths as a therapist include empathy, active listening, and the ability to create a safe and supportive environment where clients feel comfortable expressing themselves openly. I am compassionate, patient, and committed to understanding each client’s unique experiences, concerns, and personal goals. I also value collaboration and work closely with clients to develop realistic treatment goals and effective coping strategies tailored to their individual needs. My person-centered and culturally sensitive approach allows me to build strong therapeutic relationships while helping clients develop self-awareness, resilience, emotional growth, and positive change.

The clients I'm best positioned to serve

The best clients for therapy are individuals who are open to self-exploration, willing to engage in the therapeutic process, and motivated to work toward personal growth and change. Effective therapy can benefit people facing emotional, behavioral, relationship, or life challenges, especially when they are willing to communicate honestly, participate actively, and apply coping strategies outside of sessions. I work best with clients who value collaboration, consistency, and personal growth. Whether someone is seeking support during a difficult period or working toward long-term emotional wellness, I strive to provide compassionate guidance, encouragement, and evidence-based support tailored to their unique needs and experiences.

Specialties

Top specialties

Anger Management

Anxiety

Other specialties

ADHD

Depression

I identify as

Licensed in

California

Accepts

Location

Virtual

My treatment methods

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques to help identify and challenge negative thought patterns, develop healthier coping strategies, and improve emotional and behavioral responses. Through CBT, I work on building self-awareness, problem-solving skills, and positive behaviors to better manage daily stressors and personal challenges.

Culturally Sensitive Therapy

Counseling is the process of becoming awakened to our true selves to better understand how our personal experiences influence who we are. Our personal experiences are impacted by our family of origin, racial and cultural/ethnic group, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, etc. I use culturally sensitive therapy to recognize and respect each individual’s cultural background, values, beliefs, and experiences. This approach helps create a safe and inclusive environment where clients feel understood and supported while addressing personal challenges and goals.

Family Therapy

I use family therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, and address conflicts within the family system. Family therapy helps create a supportive environment where family members can better understand one another, develop healthy coping skills, and work together to resolve challenges and improve overall family functioning.

Couples Counseling

I use couples counseling to help partners improve communication, strengthen trust, and work through conflicts in a healthy and productive manner. Couples counseling supports individuals in developing better understanding, problem-solving skills, and healthier relationship dynamics to improve overall relationship functioning.

Person-centered (Rogerian)

I approach person-centered counseling by creating a supportive, nonjudgmental, and empathetic environment where individuals feel heard and valued. I encourage clients to explore their thoughts and feelings openly while promoting self-awareness, personal growth, and confidence in their ability to make positive changes.

New to Grow
This provider hasn’t received any written reviews yet. We started collecting written reviews January 1, 2025.