New to Grow
My name is Zakiyyah Francisco and I am a clinical individual Psychotherapist and I have been providing therapeutic services for over 15 years. My warm, non-judgmental, and personal approach to the issues you bring forward will support you in developing your own resources and resilience in facing life's challenges. I know that finding a skillful therapist who is a good fit can be challenging because when it comes to therapy, one size does not fit all. Therefore, I integrate several therapeutic modalities in my work in order to offer the most effective treatment to you. I help to create a safe space to explore past and present experiences, develop healthier coping strategies, and build on existing strengths. My goal is to support you in finding clarity, strength, and growth as you move through life’s challenges.
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
In your first therapy session, you can expect a warm and supportive space where we will get to know each other and talk about what brought you to therapy. I’ll ask questions to better understand your goals, challenges, and strengths, while also giving you the chance to share at your own pace. This method helps me understand your background and creates a comfortable space for us to work together. My goal is to make sure you feel at ease as we begin this journey.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
I combine evidence-based methods like DBT, CBT and Solution-Focused Therapy with a compassionate, person-centered style, helping clients use their own strengths to create meaningful and lasting change. I prioritize creating a safe and supportive environment where you can express yourself openly and comfortably. I connect well with clients and I am completely absorbed in the conversation when we are meeting . I help clients generate ideas and praise them for the effort they are making to change their lives. I understand how difficult it is to change ideas or behaviors that one has had perhaps all their life. We discuss change and the challenges regarding the difficulties and process this during sessions. I am also open minded, flexible and actively listen to what my clients share.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
Having worked as a therapist for over 15 years, I have worked with individuals experiencing a variety of life situations. Many of the clients I work with want to feel “better” but may not have the words for what that means yet, or may feel weighed down by anxiety and uncertainty. My role is to create a supportive space where you can sort through those feelings, gain clarity, and begin to tap into the strengths you already have. Together, we work on practical strategies/tools to reduce stress, build confidence, and help you feel more grounded as you move toward the life you want.
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
I am a certified DBT therapist. Provide clients with the tools they need to better manage current stressors in their life. Using DBT skills, I help to increase clients ability to cope in healthier ways using the four modules in DBT. We will practice skills that comprise of Emotion Regulation, Distress Tolerance, Interpersonal Effectiveness, and Mindfulness. DBT gives clients a set of tools to manage intense emotions, regulate distress, and improve relationships. The skills and techniques are applicable to a wide variety of presentations and issues.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I have been practicing using CBT skills for many years. It’s a collaborative process, and I’m here to guide you every step of the way. CBT exercises help clients identify and reframe unhelpful thoughts. CBT gives you tools to help solve problems in the present. Practicing CBT techniques can help you change behavior and begin to move forward.