I am a compassionate and dedicated therapist with experience working with individuals of all ages, including those struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, autism, and various mental health conditions. My approach is tailored to each individual, utilizing a variety of evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, and other therapeutic techniques. By focusing on building resilience, enhancing coping skills, and promoting positive change, I help clients overcome challenges and develop a deeper sense of self-awareness and empowerment. My goal is to support individuals in creating lasting change, improving their mental well-being, and achieving a fulfilling, balanced life
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
In your first session with me, you can expect a warm, welcoming, and nonjudgmental space where we can begin to build a trusting therapeutic relationship. The session will primarily focus on getting to know you, understanding your unique experiences, and discussing the challenges you're facing. I'll listen attentively to your concerns and work with you to identify your goals for therapy. Together, we’ll explore your background, any mental health concerns, and the support you need. Based on this, I will explain the therapeutic approaches that may be most helpful for you, whether it’s Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), or another approach. The first session is about laying the foundation for our work together and ensuring that you feel comfortable and supported as we start your journey toward healing and growth.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
My greatest strength as a therapist is my ability to create a safe, compassionate, and nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, valued, and understood. I am deeply attuned to the unique needs of each individual and approach every session with empathy, patience, and a genuine commitment to their well-being. This allows me to build strong therapeutic relationships and foster trust, which is essential for healing and growth. Additionally, my flexibility in using a variety of evidence-based techniques, such as CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing, ensures that I can tailor my approach to each client's goals and challenges, empowering them to make meaningful, lasting changes in their lives.
About Sandra Simon
Licensed in
Accepts
Address
4914 Fitzhugh Ave, Richmond, VA 23230, 100Appointments
Virtual & in-personMy treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
In my therapy practice, I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as a core approach to help clients of all ages navigate challenges such as trauma, depression, and anxiety. CBT focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful thought patterns that contribute to emotional distress and negative behaviors. Through this structured and goal-oriented process, clients learn to reframe their thoughts, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and build resilience. Whether working with children, adults, or individuals dealing with trauma, I tailor CBT techniques to meet each client's unique needs, fostering empowerment and lasting change.
Couples Counseling
In my practice, I use couples counseling to help partners strengthen their relationship, improve communication, and resolve conflicts in a healthy, constructive way. By creating a safe, nonjudgmental space, I encourage couples to explore underlying issues, enhance emotional understanding, and develop effective problem-solving skills. I use a variety of techniques tailored to the couple's unique dynamic, such as improving active listening, addressing negative patterns, and fostering empathy. Whether dealing with communication struggles, trust issues, or intimacy concerns, my goal is to support couples in rebuilding connection, deepening mutual respect, and creating a more fulfilling partnership.
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
In my therapy practice, I incorporate Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to help clients, particularly those struggling with emotional regulation, self-destructive behaviors, and interpersonal challenges. DBT combines elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy with mindfulness strategies, emphasizing acceptance and change. Through DBT, I guide clients in learning skills to manage intense emotions, reduce impulsive behaviors, and improve relationships. I teach mindfulness techniques to increase present-moment awareness, distress tolerance skills to cope with difficult situations, and emotion regulation strategies to enhance self-control. DBT is especially effective for clients facing trauma, borderline personality disorder, and those with difficulty managing their emotions in relationships. My aim is to empower clients to build a more balanced, fulfilling life while cultivating self-compassion and emotional resilience.
Motivational Interviewing
In my therapy practice, I use Motivational Interviewing (MI) to help clients explore and resolve ambivalence about making positive changes in their lives. MI is a client-centered, collaborative approach that emphasizes empathy, active listening, and nonjudgmental support. I work with clients to uncover their intrinsic motivations and goals, guiding them through a process of self-reflection and discovery. By highlighting their strengths and recognizing the barriers to change, I help clients build confidence in their ability to make lasting changes. Whether addressing issues like addiction, lifestyle changes, or personal growth, MI fosters a supportive environment where clients feel empowered to take ownership of their decisions and move forward with greater motivation and commitment.
Strength-Based
In my therapy practice, I use a strength-based approach to help clients recognize and build upon their existing strengths, resources, and resilience. Rather than focusing solely on challenges or deficits, I work with clients to identify their personal abilities, past successes, and positive qualities. This perspective empowers individuals to view themselves as capable of overcoming obstacles and achieving their goals. By fostering self-efficacy and promoting a sense of hope, I guide clients in using their strengths to navigate difficulties, improve coping strategies, and create meaningful, lasting change in their lives. Whether working with individuals, couples, or families, the strength-based approach helps clients develop a greater sense of confidence, self-worth, and empowerment.