Hello! I’m Erin. Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed just trying to get through the day? You’re not alone. I work with individuals facing challenges like anxiety, depression, mood disorders, substance use, ADHD, trauma, and stress. Together, we’ll create a plan that’s uniquely tailored to you, focusing on your goals and the steps needed to achieve them. Using a holistic approach, we’ll look at every aspect of your life to find the best path forward, incorporating evidence-based techniques that suit your needs. I truly appreciate you reaching out because I know taking that first step can be intimidating. You’re making a courageous choice, and I’m here to support you. My goal is to provide a safe and welcoming space where you can heal and grow at your own pace. We’ll work side by side, exploring ways to overcome the obstacles and habits that are holding you back. I’m here to offer guidance, encouragement, and the tools you need to move forward.

What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?

In the first session with me, clients can expect a welcoming and non-judgmental environment where they can share their concerns and begin to feel comfortable. Here’s what typically happens: Introduction and Rapport Building: I will introduce myself, explain my background, and give an overview of the counseling process. We’ll spend some time getting to know each other to build rapport and establish a sense of trust. Discussion of Concerns: I will invite the client to share what brought them to counseling and discuss their main concerns or challenges. This is an open conversation where the client can express their thoughts and feelings without pressure. Gathering Information: I will ask questions to better understand the client’s history, including their mental health background, any previous therapy experiences, and relevant personal or family history. This helps me gain a comprehensive understanding of the client’s situation. Setting Goals: Together, we will begin to identify some initial goals for therapy. These goals can be specific or general, depending on where the client is at in their journey. This step helps to set a direction for our work together. Explaining the Process: I will explain how therapy works, including confidentiality, session structure, and what the client can expect in future sessions. I’ll also answer any questions the client may have about the process. Initial Assessment: If necessary, I might conduct an initial assessment to gauge the client’s current mental health status. This could involve discussing symptoms or completing brief assessment tools. Collaborative Plan: We will discuss a preliminary plan for moving forward, which might include setting up a regular schedule for sessions, identifying any immediate steps the client can take, and establishing a comfortable pace for the therapeutic process. By the end of the first session, clients should have a clear understanding of how therapy with me will proceed, feel heard and understood, and leave with a sense of hope that we are on the right path together.

Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.

My greatest strengths as a provider include my specialized training in trauma-informed care and trauma therapies, including EMDR and TF-CBT. I am also certified in Virginia as a substance abuse counselor and a sex offender treatment practitioner. Beyond my qualifications, I bring warmth, empathy, and genuine care to my work, creating a safe and supportive environment where clients can feel understood and valued. This combination of expertise and compassion allows me to meet clients where they are and guide them through their healing journey.

About Erin Janovec