Hi, I'm Jennifer. I became a therapist by first being introduced to therapy as a client myself. I had difficulty finding a good fit and felt I could be an effective therapist myself. Are you feeling anxious about the prospect of beginning or resuming therapy? Maybe you fear judgment in telling your story to someone else? I found it exhausting to retell my story each time I began with a new therapist, but I eventually found a good fit and was able to get the treatment I needed. I use a nonjudgmental stance in my approach in order to optimize healing and allow for personal growth in a safe space. I will encourage you to be nonjudgmental, but accountable, with yourself and others while avoiding personalizing issues that do not belong to you. We will ensure that you are an active participant in your therapy, as you are truly the expert in yourself. We will get to know each other before determining which type of therapy will work for you, as every person, relationship, and situation is unique. My background is in both residential and outpatient settings, including group, individual, family, and couples therapy with dual diagnosis for both addiction and psychiatric diagnoses. I also have experience in private practice, an inpatient psychiatric hospital and an outpatient counseling center. *I am not currently able to accommodate evening or weekend appointments*
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
After our first session together, you can expect an honest assessment and plan for treatment that is tailored especially for you. We will review your goals for treatment and a general timeline for reaching those goals. At the end of each session, we will discuss how the session went for you, where you will have the chance to provide feedback and we will make adjustments as needed. After several sessions together, we will discuss the progress of your treatment and revisit your treatment goals to ensure you are making progress.
What treatment methods and tools do you utilize?
The treatment methods I use are strictly evidence-based. The appropriate treatment method will be discussed with you prior to implementation. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on identifying and changing harmful thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that may be causing you suffering and maintaining cycles/spirals of depression, anxiety, trauma, etc. Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) focuses on acquiring and using skills for emotion regulation, distress tolerance, mindfulness, and interpersonal effectiveness. To be dialectical is to think critically and in a way that is balanced.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
I feel that my biggest strength as a therapist is being genuinely interested and caring with my clients. This is based on feedback I have received from clients over many years and my own feelings about myself as a therapist. The connection between a therapist and client is the most important element in making therapy effective. It takes effort on both the part of the therapist and the client, but you can rest assured that I will do my part to connect with you, validate you, and help you to heal.
Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.
Adult clients with depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, Bipolar, Grief, Adjustment Disorders