Debbie Kochakji profile image

Debbie Kochakji

Debbie Kochakji

LCSW
40 years of experience
Virtual

I am Debbie Kochakji, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and I provide virtual tele health counseling primarily for adults. This is a GREAT first step for change.. both personally and professionally. I use a direct approach, paired with dedication, compassion and humor. The ultimate goal is for the client to gain a sense of empowerment for growth and healing to achieve a more fulfilling life. Together we will work through challenges and create a tool box of lifetime skills and strategies. Virtual counseling provides safe and easy access to make those changes you are seeking! The focus would be on identifying needs, goals and strategies to increase social competency, self-esteem, problem-solving, conflict resolution, coping skills, and communication. Focus will be on identifying patterns that do not work, and replacing strategies that will work more effectively. Every individual is different. I start where the client is, identifying and assessing; goals, priorities, cultural norms, values, feelings, and your communication style. We will work together for you to gain insight into your strengths and challenges, and patterns and perceptions that guide you. I am truly passionate to assist you through this process.

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

Counseling can be anxiety provoking and somewhat intimidating. Our first session will focus on getting comfortable with the process and clarifying a direction. It is very individualized according to the clients needs and wants. I start where the client is.

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

I am very passionate and compassionate for the clients I work with. I provide a very laid back, safe, comfortable virtual environment. Although I like to use humor when appropriate to lighten things a bit, sessions are very much goal driven. I create a balance of relaxation while pushing a client past the comfort zone when ready. My goal is for each client to gain some insight and leave most sessions with a strategy to work on.

About Debbie Kochakji

Identifies as

Licensed in

Appointments

Virtual

My treatment methods

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

Many issues and behaviors stem from unhealthy, negative or sabotaging thoughts, often a result from past patterns or traumatic events. Assisting a client to reframe, pivot and self talk are often extremely beneficial strategies that help clients to heal and redo the old patterns resulting in positive change.

Motivational Interviewing

A client needs to want to change. Counseling is an objective process for a client to feel safe to explore insight into ones self and to empower the client to feel good about the choices one makes.

Solution Focused Brief Treatment

It is important to learn from the past, live in the present and plan for the future. Problem solving and coping skills are crucial life skills to work through difficult situations.

Acceptance and commitment (ACT)

This process helps a client to accept one’s feelings and thoughts and be mindful and grounded in the present.

Dialectical Behavior (DBT)

Counseling provides a space to explore ones values, emotions, and self identity and learn to be accepting of ones self while working towards positive change. Emotional regulation and interpersonal effectiveness are crucial life skills.