Hello, I'm D'Netra Young-Lawal, LCSW. I've been dedicated to the field of social work since 2011, and became a licensed clinical social worker in 2021. My passion is empowering Black women facing life transitions and unique challenges. I create a compassionate and supportive environment where you can feel truly heard and understood. Together, we'll navigate your journey towards healing, growth, and resilience. Let's embark on this transformative path together.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
In our first session, you can expect a warm and welcoming environment where we’ll get to know each other. We'll discuss your goals and what you hope to achieve through our sessions. I’ll ask some questions to understand your background and current challenges, and together we'll start to build a roadmap for your healing and growth. It's all about creating a safe space where you feel comfortable and heard.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
I believe my greatest strengths as a provider are my deep empathy and genuine commitment to supporting my clients. I create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your feelings and challenges. My focus on understanding the unique experiences of Black women allows me to offer personalized and culturally sensitive support, empowering you on your journey to healing and growth.
About DNetra LaTrice Young Lawal
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VirtualMy treatment methods
Motivational Interviewing
In my 13 years as a case manager, motivational interviewing (MI) has been a foundational tool that significantly enhances my practice. Here’s how I’ve integrated MI into my work: 1. **Client-Centered Approach**: MI emphasizes a client-centered philosophy. I prioritize building a trusting relationship where clients feel safe to express their thoughts and emotions. This rapport is crucial in fostering open dialogue about their challenges and aspirations. 2. **Exploring Ambivalence**: Many clients come to me feeling conflicted about their behaviors and the changes they want to make. Through MI techniques, I create an environment where they can explore their ambivalence without judgment, helping them clarify their own motivations for change. 3. **Encouraging Change Talk**: I use open-ended questions and reflective listening to elicit "change talk." This involves encouraging clients to articulate their reasons for wanting to change, which helps reinforce their commitment and self-identity as someone who can succeed. 4. **Collaborative Goal Setting**: Once clients express their motivations, I work collaboratively with them to develop realistic and achievable goals. This collaborative approach ensures that the plan aligns with their values and circumstances, increasing the likelihood of success. 5. **Supporting Self-Efficacy**: I focus on highlighting clients’ strengths and past successes. By reinforcing their abilities and resilience, I help build their confidence in making and sustaining changes. 6. **Regular Check-Ins and Adjustments**: I continually assess clients’ progress and feelings about their journey. This allows me to provide tailored support and make necessary adjustments to their action plans, ensuring they feel supported throughout the process. Overall, incorporating MI into my practice has transformed the way I engage with clients, fostering a more empowering and effective treatment experience. It allows clients to take ownership of their changes, leading to more meaningful and lasting outcomes.
Solution Focused Brief Treatment
In my 13 years as a case manager, I have found that solution-focused practice complements my work with motivational interviewing (MI) exceptionally well. Here’s how I integrate these approaches: 1. **Strengths-Based Focus**: In my practice, I emphasize the strengths and resources that clients already possess. By identifying and building on their existing capabilities, I help them envision solutions rather than fixating on problems. 2. **Setting Goals**: I collaborate with clients to define clear, achievable goals. Using MI techniques, I encourage them to articulate their desired outcomes, which creates a sense of ownership and motivation to pursue those goals. 3. **Exploring Exceptions**: I help clients identify times when they were able to cope or succeed despite challenges. This aligns with MI's focus on eliciting "change talk" and reinforces their belief in their ability to make positive changes. 4. **Encouraging Hope and Possibility**: Through both MI and solution-focused techniques, I foster a hopeful outlook. I guide clients to visualize their future and explore the steps they can take to reach their goals, reinforcing their sense of agency. 5. **Regular Progress Reviews**: I consistently check in on clients' progress, using both MI and solution-focused questions. This helps them reflect on what’s working and what adjustments might be needed, keeping the focus on solutions and forward movement. By combining motivational interviewing with solution-focused practice, I create a dynamic and empowering environment for my clients. This approach not only helps them identify and pursue their goals but also strengthens their belief in their own abilities to create meaningful change in their lives.