Feeling overwhelmed by emotions or controlled by your feelings can be challenging. If you're seeking to understand yourself better or questioning your reactions, an impartial person can offer support through this process. My name is Jessica, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with experience assisting individuals across various settings and life stages. Life's difficulties and complexities can be daunting and seeking help may feel intimidating. Yet, by reaching out, you've taken a commendable step. I am eager to join you on your journey. Support during times when we feel utterly drained can be transformative. Together, we can makes sense of the issues you face and formulate a plan to tackle them. Remember, you are not alone, and you are more than your anxiety, depression, or any losses you've endured. Regarding my background, I embarked on my educational path later in life. After earning my AA from Chabot College, I initially thought that would be the extent of my education. However, encouraged by faculty, friends, and family, I pursued further studies at Mills College, where I obtained my BA in Psychology. This led me to work with children and families in ABA therapy, which inspired me to further my education. I enrolled in USC's MSW program, paving my way into social work. Post-graduation, I supported individuals with chronic medical conditions, substance use issues, and other mental health challenges. My career also includes aiding individuals reintegrating into society post-incarceration. Most recently, I have worked with individuals diagnosed with chronic medical conditions and those in hospice care, where depression, anxiety, grief, and loss are natural and expected reactions to such significant life changes.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
In CBT sessions, we will work together to pinpoint issues and devise practical solutions to address them. The objectives are based on the 'SMART' criteria: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Time-bound. Working collaboratively, we will work on prioritizing these objectives and establishing gradual steps towards achieving them. For example, if you're experiencing depression, it might be challenging to set or believe in achieving your goals. As a team we will set attainable goals which will help you stay motivated during treatment. Additionally, you might receive "homework" tasks to support your therapy progress, like journaling to track upsetting thoughts or doing breathing exercises to manage anxiety. Each of these elements plays a crucial role in the recovery journey.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
Ensuring that you feel secure and at ease to express yourself openly and honestly is crucial. I have experience working with many clients who have had hesitations about therapy or negative experiences in the past. Your comfort and safety are my top priorities. When you feel secure and at ease, we can start the therapeutic work.