Lena Payne
Hello. I'm a LCSW in California who has been practicing psychotherapy for 20 years. I help adults who are struggling in relationships or who are overcoming the effects of past relationships. I really enjoy working with women experiencing reproductive changes such as perinatal, perimenopause, and menopausal transitions.
Having been in this this field for many years as a therapist and a professor I have learned to focus on the root cause of a problem and have a real plan to address it.
I have experience as a professor in social work teaching classes on treating trauma and working with military and veterans. I also train new psychotherapist to help them develop skills which help me continue to learn and grow.
First session
In the first session we will get to know each other and I will learn more about your concerns. Then we will determine if I am the best fit. The relationship with the client and therapist is the most important factor in determining therapy outcomes. We will set goals based on what is most important to you and make a plan to accomplish those goals.
Strengths
Having been in this this field for many years as a therapist and a professor I have learned to focus on the root cause of a problem and have a real plan to address it. I work together with my clients to make sure we are on the same page. I am authentic in my interactions and direct in my feedback.
Ideal clients
My ideal clients are ready to work in and out of session. They want to be an active participant in therapy and are open to feedback. My clients often are dealing with depression, anxiety, grief, life transitions, medical problems or trauma. They are not just wanting to vent but to move forward with their lives, onward to better things and unlimited possibilities.
Treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I am trained in CBT for depression and I train others in this modality. I also provide CBT for other concerns such as menopause, anxiety, weight loss, trauma, and relationship transitions.
Motivational Interviewing
I use motivational interviewing and motivational enhancement therapy to improve your readiness for change and to overcome barriers that may be keeping you from making a change you desire.
Interpersonal
We will use IPT to look at your relationships, attachment style and how you can get your needs met in relationships. I also have training in IPT for reproductive health which addresses topics such as miscarriage, menopause, perinatal, and other life situations related to reproduction.
Location
Virtual sessions
Identifies as
Top specialties
Doesn't specialize in
Licensed in
- CaliforniaLicense 25874