LMFT, 16 years of experience
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with extensive experience in substance use disorders, trauma, and family systems, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and effective therapy to individuals, couples, and families. My approach is holistic, integrating evidence-based practices to address the complex interplay between mental health, addiction, and relational dynamics. I specialize in the following areas: Specializations Substance Use Disorders: Expertise in treating various forms of addiction, utilizing cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and relapse prevention strategies. Trauma: Skilled in trauma-informed care and other therapeutic modalities to help clients process and heal from traumatic experiences. Family Systems: Proficient in family therapy techniques, focusing on improving communication, resolving conflicts, and strengthening family bonds. Therapeutic Approach: Client-Centered: Emphasizing a supportive and non-judgmental environment where clients feel heard and valued. Integrative: Combining different therapeutic methods tailored to each client’s unique needs and goals. Collaborative: Working closely with clients to develop personalized treatment plans that promote long-term recovery and well-being. Professional Experience: Over 16 years of clinical experience in diverse settings, including private practice, outpatient clinics, and community mental health center with a proven track record of helping clients achieve significant improvements in their mental health and relationships.
In your first therapy session, you can expect a warm, welcoming, and judgment-free space where you’ll feel heard, supported, and respected. My goal is to help you feel comfortable from the start as we begin building a trusting therapeutic relationship. We’ll start by discussing your reasons for seeking therapy, your goals for treatment, and any current challenges you’re facing—whether that’s anxiety, depression, trauma recovery, substance use concerns, relationship stress, or life transitions. I take time to understand your personal history, strengths, and support systems so we can create a treatment plan that truly fits you. You’ll leave the first session with a clearer understanding of the therapy process, what to expect moving forward, and initial steps we can take together toward your goals. Most importantly, you’ll know you have a safe, compassionate space where you can explore your experiences and begin your journey toward healing, balance, and emotional wellness.
I strive to create a safe, welcoming space where clients feel truly heard and understood. Building genuine connections is at the heart of my work, allowing clients to share openly without fear of judgment. I use a personalized, integrative approach that draws on evidence-based practices to meet each client’s unique needs—whether they’re working through substance use challenges, healing from trauma, or navigating relationship struggles. My experience in family systems therapy also helps families strengthen communication, set healthy boundaries, and find meaningful ways to reconnect.
I love working with those who are motivated to explore the underlying dynamics of their mental health and relational challenges, as well as those seeking to cultivate healthier connections and a deeper understanding of themselves and their loved ones.
About Me I am a Licensed Therapist with over 16 years of clinical experience helping individuals, couples, and families overcome challenges related to substance use disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. I am passionate about providing compassionate, evidence-based, and client-centered therapy that empowers clients to heal, grow, and thrive. Therapeutic Approach My approach is holistic and integrative, combining Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Relapse Prevention, and Trauma-Informed Care to support emotional wellness and sustainable recovery. I address the interconnection between mental health, addiction, trauma, and family systems, helping clients build insight, resilience, and healthier relationships. I also draw from Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills, and Attachment-Focused Therapy to promote self-awareness, emotional regulation, and inner healing. Specializations ✅ Substance Use Disorders & Addiction Recovery – Expertise in CBT, motivational enhancement, relapse prevention, and dual-diagnosis treatment to support long-term sobriety. ✅ Trauma & PTSD Recovery – Skilled in trauma-informed, somatic, and mindfulness-based interventions to help clients process and release past pain safely. ✅ Family & Relationship Therapy – Experienced in family systems and communication-focused therapy to improve connection, understanding, and relational health. ✅ Anxiety, Depression & Life Transitions – Supportive strategies to manage stress, build coping skills, and restore balance. Therapeutic Style ✔ Client-Centered: I provide a warm, non-judgmental space where clients feel heard, valued, and supported. ✔ Integrative: I tailor treatment plans to each client’s unique needs, blending therapeutic techniques for maximum effectiveness. ✔ Collaborative: I partner with clients to develop personalized strategies that foster empowerment, resilience, and lasting change. ✔ Strengths-Based: I help clients identify and build on existing strengths to achieve meaningful personal growth. Professional Experience With extensive experience in private practice, outpatient programs, hospital settings, and community mental health, I bring a comprehensive understanding of behavioral health across diverse populations. My work focuses on helping clients manage substance use, heal from trauma, improve communication, and reconnect with their sense of purpose and well-being.
1 rating with written reviews
July 1, 2025
She’s wonderful. Desiree empowers me to look at my options from different angles & provides support as I explore what they mean to me. She’s compassionate and understanding. She creates a safe space for me to process my emotions and provides support as I find my way through them.