Hi there! I'm Nancy, and I am so excited to share a bit about myself with you! Growing up, I experienced some pretty challenging situations within my family, and as a result, I spent much of my childhood in the foster care system and moving from place to place never being able to call a place my home. These experiences gave me a unique perspective on the importance of early intervention and prevention in the mental health field. It was through my experience as a survivor, and my own personal struggles that I discovered my passion for helping others. As a mental health professional, I've had the opportunity to work with a diverse range of individuals, but one experience that stands out to me the most is that of my younger brother. Despite struggling with reading and writing, he was consistently overlooked and eventually turned to drugs, never finishing high school. It's a heartbreaking situation, and I often wonder what could have been different if someone had taken the time to help him earlier. Unfortunately, my brother now suffers from bipolar disorder and experiences panic attacks due to the overwhelming sense of hopelessness and loss he feels. It's because of him that I've dedicated my career to helping others before they reach that point of no return. The point where there is nothing more than resignation and accepting what is than what one could become. Overall, I'm incredibly passionate about what I do and am eager to continue making a positive impact on the lives of children, youth, and families in need. I'm excited about the opportunity to get to know you and be of support to you in your toughest moments in life. Warmly, Nancy Gonzalez-McKenzie
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
After your first session, expect to feel less alone in your experience and finally experience a sense of relief in knowing that you have a team mate by your side, who is just as invested toward your progress as you are. I want you to know that when we both decide that we make a good fit, you will gain an equal partner not an expert. I will take your lead and make sure that we stay true to who you are as you slowly grow into the person you have always strived to be.
What treatment methods and tools do you utilize?
The treatment methods that I am trained for include but are not limited to: Problem Solving Therapy (PST), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Clinical Case Management, Motivational Interviewing (MI), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT), Helping the Behaviorally Challenging Child: The Collaborative Problem Solving Approach (HBCC), Mandated Reporter (MR), Suicide and Self-harm Risk/Threat Assessments.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
My biggest strengths are that I am charismatic, compassionate and always ready to meet you where you are. My specialty is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, therefore much of our work together will be based off of your own ability to not only be receptive to change but motivated to take action. I am not the expert during our time together, you are the expert and I will be taking your lead.