Bridget Bowens
Welcome! I am Bridget Bowens I am a license independent clinical social worker with 10 years of clinical experience, working with adolescents and adults. I received my master’s degree from the University of South Carolina and through my experience have gotten the opportunity to work with some amazing clients. I am based in Summerville, South Carolina where I see patients via telehealth. My specialty is working with individuals on establishing healthy copings skills to better manage anxiety, depression, life transitions, as well as helping individuals improve their self-esteem and learn the importance of boundary setting. My passion is especially in helping adolescents and women navigate through many life challenges. Clients have appreciated my ability to empathize, be authentic, and provide a safe space, while also challenging core beliefs and other thoughts that hinder progress/growth. I find pride in making sessions seem more conversational than formal and but most importantly I find pride in the success stories I get to be a part of!
First session
During the first session you can expect to feel heard and seen. While my approach is very conversational, I also enjoy listening and getting to know your reasons for seeking therapy. I like to make sure I get the whole picture and to provide the best support and feedback that I can based on your needs and reasons for treatment. My hope is that after the first session, you feel compelled to come back and inspired to continue your therapy journey.
Strengths
In addition to using evidence based therapy models, I use a conversational approach in an effort to help ease the typical anxiety that comes with talking to a therapist. While I love to provide a good listening ear, I also love to build rapport well enough for you to trust me to challenge and push you to your fullest potential. I always tell my clients that "therapy isn't always easy but it's worth it and it's especially worth it when you can see progress being made!" This approach has allowed for clients to not only develop a deeper appreciation for therapy but has also helped them to acknowledge their own growth and an increase in self-worth.
Ideal clients
My ideal clients, are clients that are honest about their needs and have goals. While they may be unsure of how to set them, they are motivated to do the work and want to see change. I also enjoy clients that come with an open mind to every session, have the ability to see things from a different perspective and can also practice and carry out the skills/interventions we have discussed in sessions.
Ongoing work together
Clients will know that they are making progress not only through self reported questionnaires, but because as a therapist, I like to remind client's to give themself grace while also being their cheerleader. I think it's important to have some one in your corner at all times acknowledging your perseverance, your efforts and your growth, because sometimes we're unable to see those things ourselves, let alone believe them. My logic is that after continuous work, clients will get in the habit of acknowledging their own progress which will ultimately inspire them to maintain change.