Hello, I'm DeAndra. If you are struggling with stress management, prioritizing self-care, building self-esteem, cultivating and maintaining healthy relationships, anxiety related to career navigation or navigating everyday life experiences and transitions, please know that you are not alone. Are you challenged by new shifts in your identity like becoming a new parent, spouse, graduate, taking on a new professional role or general overwhelm you can't seem to clearly articulate? It is important to know that you are not alone and it is more than okay to ask for help. I partner with individuals to discuss needs, goals, strengths and resources to understand the starting point on your journey to coping, healing and living an empowered life. I assist individuals in finding their stability and balance by grounding in storytelling as means for understanding the narratives we carry about ourselves, understanding the power we have to improve and grow these stories, practicing the courage to let go of the parts that no longer serve us.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
In our first session together, we will complete introductions and review your intake documentation. I will learn about your needs, goals and interest in therapy and I will share more about my approach and expertise so you can determine whether or not I am a good fit based on the support you need at this time. Moving forward, we will take a client-centered, solution-focused and reality-based approach to determine what works for you, what doesn't, where it is you see yourself going, how best to get there, and the pace that works best for you. Consider our time together a well-deserved safe space to show up authentically and find your footing for healing, peace and growth.
What treatment methods and tools do you utilize?
I leverage a few different approaches, modalities and techniques based on your needs. However, when navigating times of heightened stress or overwhelm, I will invite mindfulness-based practices such as deep breathing, brief sitting meditation, body scans and other calming and grounding techniques that can be leveraged in and outside of the therapeutic space. If there are particular behaviors you are struggling to improve or change, I will utilize Motivational Interviewing strategies and exercises to clarify your interest, willingness and barriers to making the changes and improvements you desire. Utilizing a strengths-based, trauma-informed lens, I always work to meet clients thoughtfully where they are in their journey.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
I have supported young adults, young and single parents, helping professionals, first-generation college students and child welfare system-impacted individuals and families navigating an array of system, identity, transition and growth-related challenges for over 16 years. In all circumstances and situations, I have supported individuals in understanding and harnessing their inner strength and unique backgrounds and stories for empowerment, growth and healing. While it is often difficult to see the good in ourselves, our environments or our need for positive change, I understand this challenge as one I can assist others in resolving through honesty and collaboration in the therapeutic space.