(she/her)
New to Grow
I am a clinical social worker/psychotherapist with extensive experience working with people from many different backgrounds, ages, and with a range of concerns. I have experience in working with people who are facing transitions, anxiety, depression, relationship problems and, those struggling with barriers to realizing their creative and professional goals. I have also worked with people with life-limiting illness, grief and loss, history of trauma, and those acting as caregivers. A major focus in my work is helping my clients to achieve self-acceptance, self-compassion, and a sense of authenticity in their lives. I view each client as an individual. I do not use a “one size fits all approach” but prefer to take time to get to know my clients, and to understand what they want to get out of therapy. I have found that some clients are very clear about what they want to work on (reducing anxiety, depression, help with relationship problems.) Others find that as therapy progresses, other areas of focus emerge. I utilize a range of therapeutic approaches, including insight-oriented therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness and others. I have found that the creation of a safe and supportive space for people to share their feelings and concerns is of primary importance, is a key factor in helping people to heal, to grow and to achieve their goals.
I would hope that the client will gain an understanding of how therapy works, will feel understood and hopeful about the future.
My approach is a combination of "holding space" , listening and creating a space that one can feel comfortable bringing what is the important to the session. I do use a variety of modalities, and may introduce ways that CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) or ACT (Acceptance and Commitment therapy) can be helpful. My strengths include the ability to be empathic, nonjudgmental and patient centered.
I am particularly interested in working with elders who may be dealing with physical illness, loss or simply interested in exploring how to live a full and meaningul life. I am also interested in working with individuals who are experiencing barriers to engaging in or achieving goals related to creativity. As therapy progresses, I listen carefully for areas of importance, which might include exploring spirituality, addressing family relationships, the stress associated with caregiving, and learning strategies to deal with anxiety and depression.
I will introduce concepts from CBT such as avoiding catastrophizing, modifying self-talk and using mindfulness to manage emotions and thoughts.
ACT focuses on using mindfulness to gain insight and awareness of one's emotional experience, and then to consider "what is most helpful" in dealing with a difficult situation. It is value-based; that is the client considers their own values and what is needed to live the most meaningful and satisfying life.