Becoming a licensed mental health counselor has allowed me to help people in a meaningful way. I completed my graduate degree in 2015 and began working with children and families in underserved communities. This experience has been some of the most rewarding, while helping people to learn healthy coping and build better resilience when facing life stressors. Over the past 10 years, I have worked with teens, adults of all ages and couples.
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
Upon scheduling an initial appointment with me, you will be provided with electronic documentation that will need to be completed and signed prior to our meeting. The documentation includes informed consent, practice policies, and 2-3 questionnaires. The first appointment is the intake assessment and introductory session. The main goal is for me to get a general overview of what brings you to therapy while obtaining your specific goals for therapy. It is also your time to ask me any questions and review any concerns that you may have. Progress in therapy looks like feeling better and getting closer to reaching your therapy goals. As a part of my therapeutic process, I may assign homework depending on the issue we are working on. Sometimes, the homework is in the form of action steps for the time between sessions.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
Connecting and relating to people from various backgrounds and life experiences is one of my greatest strengths. Growing up, I witnessed firsthand the impact of untreated mental illness and substance abuse. I have compassion for those who are suffering as a result of trauma or other untreated conditions such as depression and anxiety. I also understand the impact of poverty and the stress that life circumstances can place upon individuals and families.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
I help adults heal trauma and build emotionally safe relationships while providing trauma-informed care through psychology and neuroscience. I work best with individuals and couples who are motivated and ready for change in their lives. I believe that one's experiences in life, especially during the earlier stages of growth and development plays a pivotal role in how we show up in every area of life. My goal is to help people heal from the past so they can transform and live through the empowered state they were always meant live and thrive in. If this resonates with you and ready to start your healing journey, I look forward to working with you!
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I use cognitive behavioral therapy to help clients change unhelpful ways of thinking, feeling and behaving as well as teach them practical coping strategies to help them to cope better and improve their quality of life.
2 ratings with written reviews
January 13, 2026
Great first session. Mrs Taaka was very easy to talk to.
April 16, 2025
I love Taaka! She understands me completely and makes me very comfortable during our sessions and I always feel better after our sessions.