I work from a client-centered approach, tailoring every session and treatment plan to meet the unique needs of each individual client or family unit. I believe that you are the expert in your own life, and I am here to provide a supportive role as we work together. While I thoroughly enjoy being a therapist, I especially love being a mom. I have two small children and love to spend all my free time with them and my husband.
The first, or initial session, is important for both the client and myself. During this time, I am able to gather more information about struggles, wishes for therapy, and who you are as a client. I am also able to offer more insight into who I am and we can determine together if a therapeutic relationship together will work. We will review intake paperwork, explore confidentiality, and confidentiality limits while establishing rapport.
My greatest strength as a provider is my ability to be vulnerable. I never pretend to "have it all together" or be the ideal that clients should strive to be. I have the ability to connect with every client that has sought services and work diligently to help in whatever way I can-whether that is beginning a therapeutic relationship together or finding a new provider who may be a better fit. I will always do whatever is needed for the best interest of my clients.
I began my journey as a therapist specializing in working with children under 12 through Play Therapy as a Registered Play Therapist. After having my own children, I realized my true passion lies in helping new moms learn and grow in their roles as parents. With a strong background in working with young children and specialized training in the perinatal population, I have found success in helping clients create their own village and find joy in parenting.
Nicole Clelland offers therapy covered by Central California Alliance for Health (Medi-Cal), Gold Coast Health Plan (Medi-Cal), L.A. Care Health Plan (Medi-Cal), Orange County Mental Health Plan (Medi-Cal), Partnership HealthPlan of California (Medi-Cal) and San Francisco Health Plan (Medi-Cal) in California.
I believe that if Faith is important to you, it can be an amazing coping mechanism and aspect we incorporate into sessions. Everyone's faith journey is very different and how we incorporate faith into sessions varies just as much. I tailor each session to what the client needs, feels comfortable with, and wants. We can always discuss how you want to incorporate faith into sessions if it is something you are interested in.
Humanistic/client centered/eclectic is my typical go-to modality in working with clients. I firmly believe that the relationship we cultivate together will be the primary means of growth. Together we will work as a team to tackle whatever life has thrown at you.
I am a Certified Play Therapist (former Registered Play Therapist). I believe that working with children through Play is essential. I also thoroughly enjoy teaching parents how to play with their children by utilizing Play Therapy skills and techniques.