My name is Claudia Ewald. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years of experience practicing psychotherapy in South Florida. I received my Bachelor's degree in International Relations from Beloit College, Wisconsin, and my Master's in Social Work from Florida International University. Populations that I have served include victims and perpetrators of domestic violence, at-risk girls, homeless individuals and families, adolescents with co-occurring disorders, college students, convicted felons and a wide variety of clients in private practice.

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

In my experience (and according to research), the quality of the relationship between a client and clinician is the most important predictor of positive therapy outcomes. I regard my first (“intake”) sessions primarily as a “getting-to-know-one-another” opportunity. I will explore with you why you are seeking therapy and what you hope to get out of it, and I will be happy to share with you any pertinent information about myself. I know that first therapy sessions (especially with very first-time therapy) may feel somewhat daunting, but bear in mind that you deserve credit for taking this initiative. My foremost priority in a first session is to begin to establish trust and provide a safe and nurturing environment where we can work through your challenges and promote healing. My mom used to say, “You have to kiss a lot of frogs before you meet your prince.” If we’re a good match, that’s great! If not, then that’s okay too. I believe that if we have rapport, trust and a real sense of emotional safety, then the healing can begin. Don’t settle for anything less.

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

My anti-ego rebels, but I would say that my strengths include empathy-to-a-fault, honesty, exceptional active listening skills, and trustworthiness. I am a fierce proponent of social justice, and relish diversity in all its forms. I put a tremendously high value on the National Association of Social Workers’ Code of Ethics, and I invariably care a great deal about all of my clients. I regard clients as not mere recipients of services, but active, equal and dynamic partners in their own healing, and my passion is to see lives transformed by those who are motivated to seek change.

About Claudia Ewald

Appointments