Hey there! I am a provider with over 20 years of experience in working with diverse patient populations including patients with mental illnesses. I have a deep understanding of various mental health conditions and effective treatment approaches. I am committed to providing high-quality care that is tailored to the unique needs and preferences of each patient. My goal is to support individuals in achieving their mental health goals, improving their overall well-being, and leading fulfilling lives. My expertise includes but is not limited to: • Conducting comprehensive assessments to understand the individual needs and challenges of each patient. • Developing personalized treatment plans that address the specific mental health concerns of each patient. • Providing evidence-based therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), ( IPT) , Psychodynamic therapy , Group therapy, Family therapy and Mindfulness-based approaches. The choice of therapy is based on the patient's need, cost, accessibility and treatment goal and therapy effectiveness. • With dual certifications, psychiatrists and primary care providers, my clinic is a one stop shop where your mental health and general medical needs are cared for. • We collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as to ensure holistic care for patients. Try us out and you will be glad you did! • We offer compassionate and nonjudgmental support to help patients navigate their mental health journey. • We advocate for patients' rights and empowering them to take an active role in their treatment and recovery. • We look forward to experiencing this new and great future with you!
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
During our first session, our client may have various expectations and goals for the session. Some common expectations that a client may have in their first mental health session with us include: Establishing rapport: The client may expect to build a trusting and supportive relationship with the mental health provider. Most patients want to feel heard, understood, and respected during the session; we allow them that with clear boundaries; so therapy can be completed. They are encouraged to share their concerns: The client may expect to have the opportunity to talk about their current challenges, symptoms, and concerns. They may want to express their thoughts and feelings in a safe and confidential space. The clients are encouraged to set goals: The client may expect to work collaboratively with the mental health provider to set goals for therapy. They may want to identify areas of focus, discuss their desired outcomes, and develop a plan for addressing their mental health needs. The clients are made to understand the therapeutic process: The client may expect to learn more about the therapeutic process, including the different approaches and techniques that may be used in therapy. We share and make them understand what to expect in future sessions and how therapy can support their mental health and well-being. Exploring treatment options: The client may expect to discuss potential treatment options, such as therapy modalities, medication management, or referrals to other mental health professionals or support services. They may want to explore different approaches to addressing their mental health concerns. Overall, though the client's expectations in their first mental health session may vary based on their individual needs, experiences, and goals for therapy, we work to create a supportive and collaborative environment that meets the client's expectations and helps them feel empowered and supported in their mental health journey.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
One of my greatest strengths of a mental health provider is my ability to establish a strong therapeutic relationship with my clients. Building trust, rapport, and a supportive connection with my clients is essential for effective therapy and positive outcomes. As a mental health provider, I try to create and maintain a safe, non-judgmental, and empathetic space for clients to express themselves, explore their thoughts and feelings, and work through challenges which are crucial to promoting healing and growth. Additionally, I maintain strong communication and active listening skills, allowing my clients to effectively understand and empathize with their clients' experiences. I try to create an environment for them to ask insightful questions, provide validation and support, and offer guidance and feedback in a compassionate and respectful manner. I attend trainings and improve on my knowledge and deep understanding of human behavior, emotions, and mental health conditions, allowing me to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of mental health issues. This knowledge, expertise, and dedication to ongoing learning and professional development contribute to my effectiveness in supporting clients' mental health and well-being. Overall, my greatest strength as a mental health provider lies in my ability to form meaningful and therapeutic relationships with my clients, communicate effectively, and apply my expertise and skills to support clients my in their journey towards healing and personal growth.
About DEBORAH OKONOFUA
Identifies as
Specializes in
Licensed in
Accepts
Address
1160 Varnum Street Northeast, Washington, DC, USAAppointments
Virtual & in-personMy treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
Mindfulness-Based Therapy
Family Therapy
Interpersonal
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