Hello, I’m Dr. Cleveland, and I bring over 13 years of experience in the mental health field. I received my master's degree in clinical psychology with emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy and my doctorate degree in Applied Clinical Psychology. Throughout my career, I have served many roles, including Clinical Director and Primary Therapist at various mental health and substance treatment centers. I have been deeply involved in developing and growing treatment programs that are effective and compassionate. I have had the opportunity to work with a diverse range of clients, including those who are court-mandated, and I am well-versed in addressing the unique challenges they face. In addition to my clinical practice, I have worked as a professor, where I stay at the forefront of research and innovative practices in mental health treatment. My approach is grounded in evidence-based methods, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and is tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual. Whether you are dealing with specific challenges or seeking personal growth and balance, I am here to support you on your journey."
I want to give you a clear idea of what to expect so you feel comfortable and prepared. Today, we'll focus on getting to know you and understanding why you've decided to seek therapy. We'll start with some introductions, where I'll share a bit about myself and how I work. Then, we'll discuss the bio-psycho-social assessment, which is a comprehensive look at various aspects of your life, including medical history, psychological well-being, and social environment. This helps us get a full picture of where you are today. We'll also talk about your main reasons for seeking therapy. I want to hear about the challenges you're facing, any symptoms you're experiencing, and what you're hoping to achieve through therapy. Together, we'll begin setting some initial goals that will guide our work together. Feel free to ask any questions at any time and let me know if you have any concerns. Confidentiality is very important to us, and I'll explain how your privacy will be protected throughout this process.
"With over 13 years of experience in the mental health field, I bring a deep understanding and nuanced approach to therapy, having worked as a Clinical Director and Primary Therapist at various treatment centers. My background allows me to adeptly handle complex and challenging cases, including those with court-mandated clients, with sensitivity and effectiveness. I utilize evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to ensure my methods are grounded in research and have proven success. Each therapeutic journey is unique, and I am dedicated to tailoring my approach to meet the individual needs of every client. As a professor, I remain actively engaged with the latest research and developments in mental health, continually enhancing the care I provide. Above all, I am committed to creating a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment, fostering empathy and compassion so that clients feel truly heard and understood."
I can assist and support you with problem-solving skills, traumas, and collaboratively work with you in obtaining new coping strategies for issues such as: Depression, anxiety, relational disruptions, unresolved childhood issues, stress management, and more. Many of my clients have shared that attending therapy with myself has helped them learn new techniques in self-management and personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, marriage issues, and some of life daily stressors. I can work with you in achieving a fresh perspective on a difficult problem and help you identify your true authentic self. I work with children, adolescents, young adults, parents, individuals, couples, elders and families struggling with a broad range of anxiety, trauma, emotional and behavioral issues. I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of my client's individual needs. My ultimate goal as your therapist is to help you identify your true potential. By utilizing therapeutic techniques and approaches, we will look at your long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be limiting you from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based approach that focuses on the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Here's how and why I have used CBT with my clients over the past 13 years: 1. **Understanding Patterns**: CBT helps clients become aware of negative or unhelpful thought patterns. By recognizing these patterns, clients can start to understand how their thoughts influence their feelings and behaviors. 2. **Challenging and Restructuring Thoughts**: Once negative thought patterns are identified, CBT encourages clients to challenge and reframe these thoughts. This involves questioning the evidence for their thoughts, exploring alternative viewpoints, and assessing the reality of their beliefs. 3. **Behavioral Changes**: By changing thought patterns, clients are encouraged to alter their behaviors. CBT often incorporates behavioral experiments and exercises, helping clients practice new ways of behaving in situations that are typically challenging for them. 4. **Skill Building**: CBT provides clients with practical skills and techniques that they can use in everyday situations. This might include stress management, problem-solving, and coping strategies. 5. **Personalization**: While the principles of CBT can be universally applied, the therapy itself is highly personalized. Each client's specific thoughts, beliefs, and life circumstances are considered to tailor the approach to their unique needs. 6. **Empowerment**: By equipping clients with the tools to change their thought and behavior patterns, CBT empowers them to take control of their mental health. It fosters independence and self-efficacy, allowing clients to become their own therapists over time. 7. **Short-term and Goal-oriented**: CBT is typically a shorter-term, goal-oriented therapy. It focuses on specific problems and seeks to create measurable outcomes, which can be particularly appealing for those looking for rapid improvement. By integrating these principles and techniques, I have helped clients achieve better mental health outcomes, develop resilience, and improve their overall quality of life.