Hello, and thank you for checking out my professional profile! I'm sure this may seem a bit overwhelming, as choosing a therapist can be a very delicate and important process. So here's a little about me to see if what I can offer will assist with what you need! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Florida and have been practicing for 20+ years. Throughout my career, I have worked with adults who were in need of guidance when it came to a variety of concerns such as anxiety, depression, past trauma, and adjusting to life changes. I also have extensive experience working with adults affected by alcohol/substance use, either concerns about their own use or the effects of living with a parent, spouse, or other loved one with an alcohol/substance use disorder.

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

The first session will be different from any of our other sessions. The session will, of course, start with introductions followed by me giving you a very brief background about myself. We will then have a discussion about confidentiality and its importance in our working together and the therapeutic relationship. Next, time will be spent with you giving me an overview of what has motivated you to come see me. I will likely have some clarifying questions to get a decent snapshot of what your life is like on a daily basis and to get a better understanding of how your presenting concern affects your life. It is also important for me to find out from you what your greatest hope is in coming in to work with me. Although it is very important in the first session for you to feel that we are beginning to build rapport and establish a good working relationship, perhaps the most important thing is that I want you to feel "heard."

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

At my core, I believe that everyone is capable of growing to their fullest potential as long as they have a willingness to take that first step. However, I am fully aware of how difficult that first step may be to take. I will always be willing to take that first step with you. Over the years, many of the individuals I have worked with have mentioned my empathy, patience, honesty, my willingness to be adaptable, and an ability to be non-judgmental as the characteristics that most helped them.

About John Poli