New to Grow
My name is Dr. Zereana Jess-Huff and I am a licensed mental health practitioner with over 20+ years of experience. I primarily work with individuals ages 13+ and can also provide couples and family therapy as needed. I've received extensive training on a number of evidence based practices and am now focused on working with ADHD (specifically women with ADHD), trauma, and work with the LGBTQIA populations. My approach is very empathic while also holding my clients accountable when necessary.
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
Generally speaking an initial session is about the therapist and client getting to know one another and for the therapist to understand the unique needs of a client. My approach, while clinical, feels more like talking to a new friend. I use elements of humor, compassion, and empathy to create an environment that feels safe to the client so they are comfortable giving me the information I need to make an accurate assessment of their case.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
Therapeutic alliance. My phone number has stayed the same for 20 years because it is very important to me that no matter where my clients are at in their mental health journey they are always able to come back to their 'therapeutic home'. I am very committed to helping my clients develop a mental health toolbox that they can use for a variety of life circumstances. I am very focused on getting my clients where they want to be as quickly as possible. My ultimate goal is to relieve emotional suffering and empowering my patients to live their best life.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
I prefer to accept patients just as they present. I don't need my clients to have a growth mindset or even be committed to change. I would rather get to know my clients and understand where they are at versus placing limitations early on. I often find that many clients present with a very dysregulated central nervous system that consistently places them in fight or flight mode. This can lead to high levels of cortisol and very difficult symptoms particularly around emotional regulation and high levels of anxiety. Because of this my practice is very holistic where I attend to both mind and body.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Formally trained in CBT and hold certificates in it's application to insomnia.
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
I am a huge believer that when we learn to accept (not necessarily agree with) and focus on committing ourselves to a new course of action, we can live a less painful life.
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
Formal training in DBT and hold certificates in its applications for special populations including BPD and Eating Disorders.
Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy
I apply elements of REBT within all of my sessions with a unique focus on how emotional regulation and a overworked central nervous system can contribute to a lot of our self-limiting thoughts and beliefs.
Attachment-based
I've been working in attachment for over 15 years and often find that many of our relational difficulties rest in a disturbance to our attachment state. I focus on better understanding attachment styles and how they affect our intra and interpersonal relationships.