Grow Therapy Home
Amanda Janulis profile image

Amanda Janulis

Amanda Janulis

(she/her)

LICSW
24 years of experience
Warm
Humorous
Virtual

Hello there! One of the most important steps a person can take… and, perhaps one of the most difficult, is reaching out for assistance during difficult times in life. I'm so happy you have taken that step. My name is Amanda Janulis, and I've been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 2001. Whether you're navigating one of life's transitions, struggling with anxiety or depression, grappling with why you feel 'stuck' or unfulfilled, or facing the challenges of relationships with family, friends, or a partner, I'm here to listen and support with an open heart and mind. We'll work together to reveal the path to a life that feels truly meaningful to you. Over the years, I have worked with children and families in crisis, sexual assault and incest survivors, the geriatric population, and adults with severe and persistent mentaI illness. In recent years, I have chosen to work with adults who are seeking support in coping with anxiety, depression, challenging life transitions, and those seeking a deeper understanding of themselves. Naturally I'm a little biased here, but I believe we all benefit from engaging in self-exploration as we navigate this one wonderful, yet complicated thing we call life. So, regardless of whether you are a long time therapy-goer or this is your first time venturing into a therapeutic space, I will meet you where you are. You set the pace.

What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?

During our initial meeting, we'll spend some time getting to know each other and discuss what's bringing you into therapy. Of course, I'll be happy to answer any questions you have about my approach or about therapy in general. My goal is to get a sense of your struggles within the context of your life - both past and present. More than any expertise I bring to the table, the quality of our therapeutic relationship is the best predictor of a positive outcome for you, so creating an atmosphere of trust and openness is my number one priority.

Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.

Consider me an ally who is working with you to put together the puzzle of you: exploring the pieces that make you who you are today and how those qualities fit within the world around you. Together, we can delve deep, discover hidden strengths, and build lasting changes that fit with your unique journey. I strive to create a space where complicated, messy thoughts and feelings are not just accepted, but welcomed. Ready to begin your journey? I'm here to support you every step of the way. Let's create a path towards greater self-awareness, healthier relationships, and a life that feels rich and meaningful to you. Disclaimer: I do not provide documentation for FMLA, child custody disputes, disability, workers compensation, or service animal requests.

About Amanda Janulis

Identifies as

Specializes in

Serves ages

Licensed in

Accepts

Appointments

Virtual

My treatment methods

Humanistic

I believe that we all experience times of struggle or tension in our lives where our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors feel out of step with our 'ideal self', causing us discomfort and distress. Sometimes we need to revisit the origins of our 'ideal self' and make adjustments, and other times what is needed is self-compassion and acceptance of our messy humanness. Regardless of the path, I believe every one of us has the innate ability to heal ourselves; sometimes we just need someone to walk alongside us.

Acceptance and commitment (ACT)

I use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) in my practice in part because it (re)defines 'happiness' as the experience of a rich and meaningful life - as defined by each individual person. ACT teaches us that psychological discomfort is a normal and expected part of life and is not something to be ashamed of or a sign of weakness. The things that make our lives meaningful come with all sorts of experiences - some pleasant and others painful. When we learn how to accept and tolerate the challenges that inevitably come along our journey, we are less likely to feel hijacked by our emotions as we move toward what we value in life.

Dialectical Behavior (DBT)

I use Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) in my work with clients and regularly in my own life. DBT equips us with practical skills that help us understand our emotions more clearly, manage their intensity, and express them effectively. DBT also provides us with communication skills to help us express our wants and needs assertively and respectfully, navigate difficult conversations, and set healthy boundaries in relationships. Like ACT, DBT teaches us how to tolerate discomfort and find healthy ways to manage stress without resorting to unhealthy coping strategies.