Hi, I’m Carmen Bales, LCSW. I’m a licensed clinical social worker with a background in hospice and medical social work, where I’ve spent years supporting people through grief, life transitions, chronic stress, and uncertainty. In therapy, I offer a calm, supportive space for adults who feel anxious, overwhelmed, or emotionally stuck—even when they appear “high-functioning” on the outside. My approach is integrative and person-centered, drawing from talk therapy, expressive arts, and body-based (somatic) awareness to help clients reconnect with themselves and make sense of what they are carrying. You do not need to be “creative” to work with me. Expressive and reflective tools are used gently and always at your comfort level. I believe healing begins with being seen, understood, and supported—rather than being rushed to fix or change yourself.
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
In the first session, you can expect a warm and collaborative atmosphere with a non-judgmental stance and genuine care. We will work collaboratively to discuss concerns, goals, and challenges. I will provide an overview of the therapeutic process, establishing a trusting relationship, and share insights into how our work together will unfold. Together we will begin laying the foundation for a supportive and personalized therapeutic journey.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
My greatest strengths as a provider include compassionate understanding of end-of-life dynamics from my hospice social work experience, proficiency in navigating the complexities of impatient psychiatric care, and a holistic approach that integrates traditional clinical methods with Expressive Arts. Clients benefit from my ability to create a supportive environment that fosters healing through diverse modalities, making my approach truly comprehensive and tailored to each individual's need.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
I genuinely love working with people and am best positioned to serve clients seeking a holistic approach to well-being. Those who resonate with the integration of creative modalities and holistic tools for healing, will find my services beneficial. I have experience helping people navigate grief, addiction, eating disorders, and life stressors that feel paralyzing without the proper support. Once you reach out to me for help, you will not be alone.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Many years working as a hospice social worker and in inpatient psychiatric care, I have helped people identify negative thought patterns and learn tools to better manage well-being.
Grief Therapy
I specialize in grief therapy, helping individuals navigate the pain of loss with compassion and understanding. My approach combines evidence-based counseling with expressive arts therapy to create a safe space for processing emotions, honoring memories, and finding hope in the midst of sorrow. Whether you are coping with the death of a loved one, anticipatory grief, or other major life changes, I walk alongside you as you move toward healing.
Strength-Based
My sessions blend strength-based therapy with expressive arts techniques to help clients connect with their inner strengths, process emotions creatively, and build confidence in their healing journey.
Eclectic
I specialize in an eclectic, integrative approach that incorporates expressive arts to support emotional processing, self-awareness, and meaning-making. I utilize multimodal creative interventions—such as visual art, movement, writing, and imagery—alongside talk therapy to meet clients where they are and deepen therapeutic insight.
2 ratings with written reviews
February 25, 2025
Thanks for caring.
February 25, 2025
I feel like there was some connection and I am looking forward for another session :)