Terri Martinez
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Northern California, Nevada. I received my Masters from the University of California and I help adults struggling with life stressors, trauma and addiction. When working with clients, I use a collaborative approach to goal setting, recognizing that each person’s journey is unique.
The work I do in guiding people through stress, trauma, and addiction is transformative, and my dedication to helping clients become their best selves is a profound strength.
Together, we identify achievable and meaningful goals, break them into actionable steps, and work through potential barriers with a strengths-based perspective
First session
Clients can expect a welcoming and safe environment where they can begin to explore their concerns without judgment. . My approach focuses on building an initial connection, creating a safe and supportive space, and understanding your unique experiences and needs. I believe that every individual is different, and I aim to listen deeply before deciding on the best path forward together. My goal is to collaborate with you in a way that feels meaningful and empowering, tailored to your journey toward healing and growth.
Strengths
I feel I bring something far more powerful than knowledge alone. I offer empathy, intuition, and lived experience. My ability to connect with clients, adapt to their unique needs, and create a safe space for growth is invaluable. The work I do in guiding people through stress, trauma, and addiction is transformative, and my dedication to helping clients become their best selves is a profound strength.
Ideal clients
My style and approach are a good fit for adults, and older adults who may be dealing with the challenges of life transitions and social pressures. This often takes the form of anxiety, depression, stress, and substance abuse. I help my clients navigate these transition periods and build skills to allow them to feel better about themselves and develop a more positive outlook on life.
Treatment methods
EMDR
I have been using Eye Movement Desensitization for over 3 years successfully. It works by guiding the client through specific eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation while recalling a painful memory in a safe, controlled setting. Over time, this process helps the brain rewire how it stores that memory, reducing its emotional intensity and making it less distressing.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, is a structured, goal-oriented type of therapy that helps people understand and change negative thought patterns and behaviors. It focuses on the connection between thoughts, feelings, and actions, and works to identify unhelpful beliefs or habits that contribute to emotional distress.
Grief Therapy
It provides a safe space for clients to express their emotions, understand their grief, and find ways to heal at their own pace. As a therapist, I can support clients by: Providing a compassionate space where they feel heard and validated. Helping clients understand their grief and how it may manifest emotionally, physically, or mentally. Guiding clients through coping strategies that allow them to manage their emotions effectively.
Motivational Interviewing
Motivational Interviewing (MI) is a counseling approach designed to help individuals explore and strengthen their motivation to change, particularly in the context of substance abuse disorders. It focuses on guiding rather than directing, creating a supportive environment where clients feel empowered to make decisions about their own recovery. As a therapist, I help: Recognize ambivalence—many individuals struggle with conflicting feelings about change, and MI helps them explore these emotions without pressure. Identify their own reasons for change rather than imposing external motivations. Enhance their confidence by helping them see their ability to make positive choices.
Location
Virtual sessions
In-person sessions3080 N Lake Blvd, Tahoe City, CA 96145, Suite 204
Identifies as
Top specialties
Other specialties
Serves
Licensed in
- CaliforniaLicense 127061
- NevadaLicense 12072-C