I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Academy of Certified Social Workers (ACSW) credentialed professional with over a decade of experience helping individuals navigate life’s challenges, particularly in the areas of trauma, substance use, co-occurring disorders, and major life transitions. My approach is compassionate, strengths-based, and evidence-driven, integrating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), mindfulness-based strategies, and positive psychology to foster growth and resilience. I create a supportive space where clients feel empowered to explore their challenges, develop coping skills, and build a fulfilling life on their own terms.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
In our first session, you can expect a welcoming and judgment-free space where we focus on building rapport and understanding your unique needs. We'll talk about what brought you to therapy, your goals, and any concerns you may have about the process. I’ll ask questions to learn more about your history, strengths, and challenges, but always at a pace that feels comfortable for you. This session is also a chance for you to ask questions about my approach and what therapy with me will look like. My goal is to create a safe, supportive environment where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to take the next steps toward healing and growth.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
One of my greatest strengths as a provider is my ability to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard and supported while helping them transition from hard to safe times. Change can feel overwhelming, especially when facing trauma, substance use, or major life transitions. I bring a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach that helps clients recognize their resilience, develop coping skills, and build confidence in their ability to navigate challenges. With experience working in complex cases, including co-occurring disorders and high-stress life transitions, I excel at guiding clients through ambivalence and empowering them to make meaningful changes. I balance directness with compassion, challenging unhelpful patterns while providing the encouragement and support needed for lasting growth. My goal is to help clients move from difficult moments to a future where they feel safe, secure, and in control of their lives.
Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.
I am best positioned to serve individuals dealing with trauma, substance use, co-occurring disorders, and major life transitions. I work well with those who are seeking a deeper understanding of themselves, looking to make meaningful changes, or struggling with ambivalence about change. My approach is especially effective for individuals who may feel stuck or overwhelmed, as I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space for them to explore their challenges. I also specialize in supporting those navigating the complexities of mental health and behavioral health challenges, including individuals involved in the criminal justice system or child welfare. Ultimately, I am here to support clients in building resilience, developing coping skills, and creating long-lasting, positive changes in their lives.
About Kia Burton
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VirtualMy treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in My Practice I use CBT to help clients recognize and challenge unhelpful thought patterns that contribute to anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance use. My approach is collaborative and goal-oriented, focusing on reframing negative thinking, developing coping strategies, and building resilience. In sessions, I guide clients through identifying cognitive distortions, practicing problem-solving techniques, and using mindfulness to manage distress. By applying these tools, clients gain greater control over their emotions and behaviors, fostering long-term change and emotional well-being.
Motivational Interviewing
Motivational Interviewing (MI) in My Practice I use MI to help clients explore ambivalence and strengthen their motivation for change. Through open-ended questions, reflective listening, and affirmations, I guide clients in identifying their own reasons for making positive changes. My approach is nonjudgmental and client-centered, empowering individuals to take meaningful steps at their own pace.
Mindfulness-Based Therapy
Mindfulness-Based Therapy in My Practice I integrate mindfulness-based techniques to help clients manage stress, anxiety, and emotional regulation. By focusing on present-moment awareness, I guide clients in developing skills to observe thoughts and emotions without judgment. Techniques such as grounding exercises, guided breathing, and mindfulness meditation help clients build resilience, reduce reactivity, and improve overall well-being.
Psychoeducation
Psychoeducation in My Practice I use psychoeducation to help clients understand their mental health, substance use, and behavioral patterns. By providing clear, practical information about diagnoses, coping strategies, and treatment options, I empower clients to make informed decisions about their well-being. I tailor education to each individual’s needs, using discussions, visual aids, and real-life examples to enhance awareness and support lasting change.
Positive Psychology
Positive Psychology in My Practice I incorporate positive psychology to help clients build on their strengths, cultivate resilience, and enhance overall well-being. By focusing on gratitude, self-compassion, and personal growth, I guide clients in shifting perspectives from what’s wrong to what’s working. Through strength-based interventions, goal setting, and mindfulness practices, I support clients in fostering optimism, improving self-efficacy, and creating meaningful, fulfilling lives.