LISW, 36 years of experience
Hi! My name is Helen Farrah-McGrail and I am a licensed clinical social worker and therapist (LICSW) with three decades of professional work experience. I received my master's degree at the University of Pittsburgh. I have experience in helping clients with depression, anxiety, and stress. I also have had the pleasure of treating older adults with a myriad of issues related to aging. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
The first session begins with brief introductions and rapport building. I usually help the clients come up with goals. I will ask questions about the history and frequency of the issues at hand. I also help them put together a treatment plan designed to meet their needs.
I feel that my greatest strengths include kindness, empathy and compassion. To connect on an intimate level with my clients and help them to grow and develop in a positive manner within their lives.
In particular, I enjoy working with clients who are both eager and excited to learn and desire change for the better. In this way, I am helping them to experience life to their fullest potential.
1 rating with written reviews
February 27, 2025
Very helpful and descriptive on a game plan and helped me start to work through a large problem in my life, thank you, Helen!
Throughout my practice, I have found Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to be an effective treatment for my clients who are experiencing depression and anxiety. These skills, such as utilizing mindfulness, has been shown to be effective in managing symptoms and bettering their lives. CBT is used to recognize how your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors influence each other. We’ll then use that knowledge to change your thinking patterns, which will help you lead a less anxious and stressed life.
I have used DBT for stress tolerance and emotional regulation to reduce self-destructive behaviors. It is imperative to counter unhelpful thought patterns.
I have used mindfulness to keep the patient focused on the present moment. Everything from yoga to taking peaceful walks in the country.
I will ask you questions, open ended ones, in order to help you and myself better understand what you would like to work on in therapy.
You will find a kind and compassionate therapist who will empathize with you and with your feelings.