Erica Smith Jimenez
Hi there! My name is Erica Smith Jimenez and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). I have experience working with children, couples, families and individuals for the last 25 years in various capacities.
I really enjoy and appreciate all clients from all walks of life in a non-judgmental way and truly want my clients to feel their best.
I have worked in a number of schools (TK-12th grades and in an expulsion school), in a residential facility with children and in a community mental health clinic. I have worked with young children, teens, adults, couples and families and have been involved in group therapy.
First session
An initial session is often focused on context and information connected to the reasons for seeking therapy. Often times that first session is a time to build connection and rapport while developing a better understanding of each client's needs. I often ask lots of questions and discuss goals for therapy in order to assure clarity on client needs. I work hard to help a client feel comfortable and bring my authentic style so they might be able to get a sense of me as a person, too.
Strengths
I bring my authentic self to every session. I am direct, but also very thoughtful and gentle in the ways that I challenge clients. I use humor, am an excellent listener and feel that validation is essential. I work hard to understand underlying issues that promote the challenges that clients navigate. I really enjoy and appreciate all clients from all walks of life in a non-judgmental way and truly want my clients to feel their best.
Ideal clients
-I enjoy working with teens as they navigate their understanding of themselves and develop their identities. -I love working with young women as they navigate relationships, motherhood and all the unique experiences specific to women. -I enjoy working with a variety of clients who want to better understand emotions, communication skills and ways to cope with daily challenges. -I have worked in many capacities with children and truly value work with parents, offering support and guidance as needed.
Treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I have found that building awareness about how we are influenced by our thoughts can be very powerful. Even more importantly, being able to shift our mindset and develop a more helpful way of thinking can contribute to improved feelings and ultimately in altering overall functioning.
Attachment-based
Relationships are critical in our lives. Understanding patterns and pitfalls illuminated through investigating attachments can help us in identifying needs as well as improving connection with others.
Couples Counseling
I am available for therapy for couples in any type of partnership and share a nurturing and direct style in supporting efforts to improve communication and connection.
Strength-Based
I feel it is essential to come from a strength-based approach in all therapeutic work. I appreciate all people and always seek to understand each individual's unique strengths in order to foster change while including this standpoint while working towards goals in therapy. I want my clients to feel seen, heard, understood and valued as they navigate all aspects of their lives and work to make their desired improvements.
Location
Virtual sessions
Identifies as
Top specialties
Other specialties
Serves
Licensed in
- CaliforniaLicense 114605