I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker inspiring hope and facilitating change in the lives of people from all cultural backgrounds. For over 16 years, I have provided psychotherapy in the greater Los Angeles area. A Los Angeles native, I graduated from the University of Southern California in 2005 with my Bachelor of Arts in Broadcast Journalism and a minor in Sociology/Race Relations and in 2007 with my Masters in Social Work. My main focus is to provide you with a non-judgmental clinical space to process feelings, discover your authentic self, and heal. So how can I help? I work from humanistic and cognitive-behavioral theoretical frameworks providing you with new insights into your emotional and cognitive development. I focus on the "here and now" and help my clients address current life stressors by utilizing solution-focused interventions. You are unique and responsible for the choices you make and have the capacity to change.

What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?

In our first session I will learn more about you by exploring your family of origin (where you were born, family relationship dynamics, conflicts in family, etc.) and your reason for wanting to participate in therapy at this time.

What treatment methods and tools do you utilize?

CBT treatment usually involves efforts to change thinking patterns. These strategies might include: Learning to recognize one’s distortions in thinking that are creating problems, and then to reevaluate them in light of reality. Gaining a better understanding of the behavior and motivation of others. Using problem-solving skills to cope with difficult situations. Learning to develop a greater sense of confidence in one’s abilities. CBT treatment also usually involves efforts to change behavioral patterns. These strategies might include: Facing one’s fears instead of avoiding them. Using role-playing to prepare for potentially problematic interactions with others. Learning to calm one’s mind and relax one’s body. CBT emphasizes helping individuals learn to be their own therapists. Through exercises in the session as well as “homework” exercises outside of sessions, patients/clients are helped to develop coping skills, whereby they can learn to change their thinking, problematic emotions, and behavior.

Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.

Therapy can be an intimidating idea for newcomers considering mental health support. I am committed to creating a calm, restorative environment for you to talk about your feelings. During our client-therapist relationship together, I will provide you with the support you need to thrive. Over the years my clients have described my clinical style as genuine. I care about what has happened to you. Empathy is the catalyst for a trusting therapeutic relationship and I want to do whatever it takes to help you feel seen and heard. “It ain’t always that deep” is a motto I have embraced over the years in clinical practice. Therapy does not always have to be a space to only process pain. Done correctly, therapy can be a space to celebrate a promotion, recognize a healed relationship, or share an occasional laugh.

About Bobby Gilmore