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DEBORAH OKONOFUA, PMHNP - Maryland Psychiatric NP at Grow Therapy

DEBORAH OKONOFUA

DEBORAH OKONOFUA

(she/her)

PMHNP
1 year of experience
Virtual

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

Serves ages

Licensed in

Accepts

Appointments

Virtual

My treatment methods

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

In my therapeutic practice, I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors. Here's how I utilize CBT: Assessment: I work with clients to understand their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Goal Setting: Together, we set specific, achievable goals to address their challenges. Techniques: I use a range of CBT techniques like cognitive restructuring, behavioral experiments, and exposure therapy. Homework: Clients practice new skills outside sessions through assigned exercises. Role-playing: Role-play scenarios help clients apply coping strategies in real-life situations. Through CBT, clients develop effective coping mechanisms, improve self-awareness, and achieve lasting positive changes.

Acceptance and commitment (ACT)

In my therapeutic practice, I incorporate Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help clients develop psychological flexibility and enhance their well-being. Here's how I utilize ACT: Mindfulness: I guide clients to cultivate present-moment awareness. Values Clarification: Together, we identify core values to guide meaningful actions. Defusion Techniques: Clients learn to distance themselves from unhelpful thoughts and beliefs. Acceptance: I encourage clients to accept difficult emotions and experiences without judgment. Committed Action: Clients commit to taking purposeful steps toward their valued goals. Through ACT, clients develop resilience, improve emotional regulation, and lead more fulfilling lives aligned with their values.

Mindfulness-Based Therapy

In my therapeutic approach, I integrate mindfulness-based therapy to help clients cultivate present-moment awareness and reduce stress. Here's how I utilize mindfulness-based therapy: Mindful Breathing: I guide clients in focused breathing exercises to promote relaxation and enhance mindfulness. Body Scan: Clients learn to tune into bodily sensations, fostering self-awareness and emotional regulation. Mindful Listening: I incorporate active listening techniques to deepen client-therapist connections. Mindful Activities: Clients engage in mindful activities like journaling or mindful walking to practice mindfulness in daily life. Through mindfulness-based therapy, clients develop resilience, improve emotional well-being, and cultivate a deeper sense of self-awareness and inner peace.

Family Therapy

In my therapeutic practice, I employ family therapy to address relational dynamics and enhance communication within family systems. Here's how I utilize family therapy: Assessment: I conduct thorough assessments to understand family dynamics and identify areas of concern. Systemic Approach: I view problems within the context of family interactions and relationships, rather than focusing solely on individual issues. Communication Skills: I facilitate open and constructive communication among family members to resolve conflicts and improve understanding. Structural Techniques: I may use techniques like role-playing or genograms to explore family roles and patterns. Through family therapy, clients experience improved family cohesion, enhanced problem-solving skills, and strengthened relationships, leading to greater overall well-being.

Interpersonal

In my therapeutic practice, I incorporate interpersonal therapy (IPT) to address interpersonal issues and improve relationships. Here's how I utilize IPT: Assessment: I conduct thorough assessments to understand clients' interpersonal patterns and difficulties. Focus on Relationships: I explore how clients' relationships contribute to their emotional well-being and mental health. Communication Skills: I help clients develop effective communication skills, assertiveness, and boundary-setting. Role-Playing and Problem-Solving: I may use role-playing and problem-solving techniques to address conflicts and improve interactions. Through IPT, clients gain insights into their relational dynamics, enhance their communication abilities, and foster healthier connections, leading to improved overall well-being.