I’m a dedicated therapist passionate about helping individuals navigate their challenges and heal from past experiences. My approach combines various therapeutic techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), tailored to each client’s unique needs. I aim to create a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings, develop coping strategies, and work toward your personal goals. Together, we’ll embark on a journey of self-discovery and growth.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
In your first session with me, you can expect a warm and welcoming environment where we’ll focus on getting to know each other. We’ll begin with an assessment to discuss your background, current challenges, and what you hope to achieve in therapy. I’ll explain my approach and the tools we might use together. You’ll also have the opportunity to ask any questions you may have. Overall, the goal is to establish a foundation of trust and understanding, ensuring you feel comfortable and supported as we embark on this journey together
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
I believe my greatest strengths as a provider are my empathy, adaptability, and commitment to collaboration. I genuinely care about my clients' well-being and strive to create a safe, non-judgmental space where they can express themselves freely. My adaptability allows me to tailor my approach to fit each client’s unique needs and circumstances, ensuring that our work is relevant and effective. Additionally, I value collaboration, working alongside my clients to set goals and develop strategies that empower them to take an active role in their healing process. This combination fosters a strong therapeutic relationship that supports meaningful growth.
About Raenisha Watson
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VirtualMy treatment methods
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
When I began working with clients, my primary focus was helping them establish clear goals by exploring their values and desires. We would identify what truly mattered to them, which often involved delving into their core beliefs. I introduced mindfulness exercises, like breathing techniques, to enhance their present-moment awareness. It was rewarding to see them become more attuned to their thoughts and feelings. As sessions progressed, I encouraged them to accept their emotions without judgment, reinforcing that experiencing anxiety or uncertainty is part of being human. I supported them in taking meaningful actions toward their goals, even when it felt challenging. Ultimately, I witnessed my clients transform, becoming more aligned with their values and finding the courage to move forward in creating the lives they truly desired.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
When I started using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I quickly saw its power in helping clients reshape their thinking. The process began with a thorough assessment to understand their struggles and goals, which laid the groundwork for setting measurable objectives. One of the key breakthroughs was helping clients identify their cognitive distortions—unhelpful thought patterns like all-or-nothing thinking or catastrophizing. It was rewarding to watch them recognize how these thoughts impacted their emotions and behaviors. Once we identified these patterns, I guided them in challenging and reframing their negative beliefs. While some clients initially found this daunting, it was incredible to see their thinking shift toward more balanced perspectives. We also incorporated behavioral experiments and exposure tasks. For instance, a client who feared social situations started with small challenges, gradually building confidence. Watching them confront their fears and develop new skills was immensely fulfilling. Additionally, I taught coping strategies for stress management and problem-solving, providing tools to navigate difficult situations outside of therapy. Assigning homework was vital too, as it encouraged clients to practice skills between sessions, reinforcing their progress. Overall, CBT became a collaborative journey, empowering clients to take control of their thoughts and behaviors and fostering lasting change in their lives.
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
When I began incorporating Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) into my practice, the skills training component really stood out to me. Unlike traditional talk therapy, DBT is hands-on and fosters a sense of community through group settings. In the mindfulness module, I observed clients develop a greater awareness of the present moment. It was inspiring to see one client, who often worried about the future, learn to focus on the here and now, gradually becoming more grounded and less overwhelmed. Distress tolerance was another essential skill. Clients used to unhealthy coping mechanisms, like substance use or self-harm, were challenged to find healthier ways to manage their distress. One client, who frequently acted impulsively, learned to sit with their feelings and employ tools like self-soothing, which marked a significant breakthrough in building their tolerance for discomfort. Emotion regulation was transformative as well. I guided clients to recognize their emotions early and understand their messages, empowering them to make intentional decisions rather than letting their feelings control their behavior. Interpersonal effectiveness also played a key role. I helped clients improve their communication skills, teaching them to assert their needs and set boundaries. One client, who had struggled with relationships, became more confident in expressing themselves, leading to healthier connections.
EMDR
When I first began using Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) with clients, I was always careful to begin with a thorough assessment. This part of the process involved getting to know the client's history, understanding the traumas they had experienced, and identifying the specific memories we would work through. It was important to create a safe and supportive space for the client to feel heard, as these memories were often deeply painful or distressing. Over time, I watched as clients were able to reprocess their traumatic experiences, reducing their emotional charge and slowly integrating these memories into their broader life story. The beauty of EMDR was how it helped them move forward without being defined by the trauma, allowing them to reclaim control over their lives and their sense of self. It was always a privilege to witness this transformation.