Hi! I am Dr. Annice Overall, LCSW, DSW. Since most people ask, let's dispense with first name first. My first name is pronounced like "Janice" without the J. :-) The LCSW is Licensed Clinical Social Worker, which means I had to have a Master's Degree in Social Work (my Bachelor's was in Psychology) plus a minimum of 2000 hours of clinical supervision, before I was tested & licensed by the Department of Health. Later in my career I completed a Doctorate in Social Work in order to serve in supervisory and teaching positions. People generally describe me as a friendly, knowledgeable person who likes to help others. Basically, I am a southern country girl that went to Los Angeles to get educated, & spent an additional 12 years there learning how to live and cope with the stressors of this modern life we're living. I believe that life is hard... harder for some than others, and that most of us can use a little support at various moments along the journey.

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

Most clients find first sessions to be somewhat stressful & anxiety-inducing, so I like this opportunity to explain my intake process ahead of time. Knowing what to expect in this situation often makes it easier to take that all-important initial step of scheduling & keeping the first appointment. In fact the first thing I want to know is what is motivating you to seek help at this particular time, and, as best as you can describe, what do you hope to get out of our work together? There will be some "legal-ease" I have to address regarding confidentiality, limits of confidentiality and potential emergency situations. Beyond that everyone has a complex bio-psycho-social history... a life story. I want to know as much of your story as I can by the end of our first session. I may prompt you with certain questions to get an understanding of your health issues, your family-of-origin & your upbringing, but I like to follow your lead as to how & when these things are disclosed. If time permits we will also talk about the different "systems" within which you operate: school or work, current family circumstances & social circles.

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

I believe myself to be, and strive to be, an empathetic, non-judgmental confidant whether you are my friend, my colleague, or my client. People describe me as personable and able to put people at ease with my open & friendly demeanor.

Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.

I have experience working with clients across a wide range of ages & ethnicities. When I was younger I very much enjoyed working with children & teens. At this stage of my career, as a "youthful" 62 year-old, I feel that I am most effective with adults as they trek through various phases of life.

About Annice Overall