I am a licensed clinical social worker in California. I hold a master's degree in Social Work and a master's degree in Psychology. I am currently a doctoral candidate completing my PhD in Media Psychology, where I focus on the latest research regarding the impact of social media on mental health. With over 16 years of professional experience, I have worked with individuals of all ages with diverse cultural backgrounds. My career is dedicated to helping individuals struggling with addictions, relationship issues, trauma, domestic violence, and sexual assault. I collaborate with the District Attorney/Victim Witness program to support those navigating legal challenges within the court system. Throughout my career, I have worked in private practice, psychiatric hospitals, a Native American charter high school with at-risk youth, and as a school-based therapist in a non-profit organization. I provide guidance to individuals seeking change, focusing on self-empowerment, self-esteem, and self-confidence techniques. I treat everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I customize sessions and treatment goals to address the unique and specific needs of each individual. It takes courage to embark on a journey towards a more meaningful and fulfilling life, and the initial steps toward change may seem daunting. I am here to facilitate your exploration of that journey and empower you through self-discovery and awareness.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
The first session is an opportunity to see if this will be a good fit for you. This will be a time for exploring how I can help you and what goals we can develop for reaching your understanding of "better".
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
Some of the strengths that I bring to the therapeutic relationship are, active listening, positive communication and empathy. My background in social work and psychology has given me a broad base for understanding mental health and the resources necessary to educate and the tools for success.
About Valerie Sanz
Valerie Sanz offers therapy covered by Central California Alliance for Health (Medi-Cal), Gold Coast Health Plan (Medi-Cal), L.A. Care Health Plan (Medi-Cal), Orange County Mental Health Plan (Medi-Cal), Partnership HealthPlan of California (Medi-Cal) and San Francisco Health Plan (Medi-Cal) in California.
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VirtualMy treatment methods
Person-centered (Rogerian)
This is process of growing a therapeutic relationship building on trust & rapport to understand patterns in communication and triggers that blocked the authentic development.
Attachment-based
While growing the therapeutic relationship (trust & rapport) the attachment model allows for the personal development and understanding of Self (Self esteem, Self worth, Self awareness).
Trauma Informed Care
Trauma informed care is a model of patience, empathy, compassion, understanding of the neuro-biological impact of trauma on the brain and ultimate result of human behaviors.
Narrative
In the therapeutic relation where communication is transferred between client and therapist becomes the language or narrative used to tell the story. The story that language can be used to oppress or inspire, is explored for self empowerment and self determination.
Positive Psychology
By using multiple perspectives to re-frame and create a more positive story that encourages and motivates positive growth