Heather Anderson
As a New York State Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Credentialed Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselor, I bring 18 years of experience helping individuals overcome challenges, build resilience, and create meaningful change. I specialize in treating substance use disorders, anxiety, trauma, relationship concerns, and other life stressors, providing a supportive and nonjudgmental environment where clients feel heard and understood. I believe that no two people are alike, which is why I tailor treatment to each individual’s unique experiences, strengths, and goals. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and grounded in evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy CBT, mindfulness, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing EMDR. Together, we’ll work to better understand the patterns that may be holding you back, develop effective coping strategies, and build the confidence to move forward.
I am a New York State Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Credentialed Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselor with 17 years of experience helping individuals navigate life's challenges.
Seeking therapy is a courageous step, and you don’t have to face life’s challenges alone. My goal is to provide a safe, welcoming space where you can openly explore your thoughts and emotions without fear of judgment. Whether you’re working through anxiety, healing from trauma, navigating relationship difficulties, or pursuing recovery, I am committed to helping you discover your strengths, achieve lasting growth, and live a more fulfilling, authentic life.
First session
Your first counseling session is an opportunity for us to get to know one another in a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment. Beginning therapy can feel overwhelming, and it’s completely okay if you’re unsure where to start. My goal is to help you feel comfortable and heard from the very beginning. We’ll spend time discussing what brought you to therapy, the challenges you’re currently facing, and what you hope to achieve through counseling. I’ll also ask about your personal history, relationships, strengths, and experiences so I can better understand you as a whole person—not just the concerns that brought you in. There is no pressure to share everything at once. We will move at a pace that feels comfortable for you, and together we’ll begin creating a personalized plan that aligns with your goals. My hope is that you’ll leave your first session feeling supported, understood, and confident that you’re taking an important step toward healing and personal growth.
Strengths
I believe that the foundation of meaningful therapy is a genuine, trusting relationship. My approach is warm, compassionate, creative, and free of judgment, allowing clients to feel safe, heard, and supported throughout their healing journey. I strive to meet each person where they are, recognizing that every individual’s experiences, strengths, and goals are unique. Rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach, I tailor therapy to your specific needs by combining evidence-based techniques with practical strategies you can apply in your everyday life. Together, we’ll identify the thoughts, behaviors, and patterns that may be keeping you stuck, develop healthier ways of coping, and build the skills needed to navigate life’s challenges with greater confidence and resilience. One of my greatest strengths is creating an environment where clients feel comfortable being themselves. I believe lasting change happens when people feel understood, empowered, and genuinely supported. Whether you’re working through anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, substance use, or major life transitions, my goal is to help you gain insight, rediscover your strengths, and create meaningful, lasting change so you can live a more balanced and fulfilling life.
Ideal clients
My areas of specialty are substance use, depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship and behavioral issues. I use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), and Solution-Focused Therapy. I also incorporate mindfulness and relaxation exercises to promote emotional regulation and build resilience.
Treatment methods
EMDR
EMDR trained therapist for five years utilizing this form of therapy to help clients work through their trauma.
Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Suicide Prevention (CBT-SP)
CBT is utilized to help the client challenge negative thoughts and beliefs that are negatively impacting their life.
Mindfulness-Based Therapy
Mindfulness helps the client live in the present moment and experience stressors in a non-judgmental way.
Motivational Interviewing
Motivational interviewing is a counseling method that involves enhancing a clients motivation to change by means of four guiding principles, represented by the acronym RULE: Resist the righting reflex; Understand the clients own motivations; Listen with empathy; and Empower the client.
Location
Virtual sessions
In-person sessions1 Park Pl, Fredonia, NY 14063
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Licensed in
- New YorkLicense 013236