Akilah Yates, LCPC - Therapist at Grow Therapy

Akilah Yates

Akilah Yates

LCPC
9 years of experience
Virtual

With over nine years of dedicated experience, I’ve had the privilege of supporting adults, children, and adolescents as they navigate trauma, anxiety, and depression. I’m here for those who feel overwhelmed by overthinking or find themselves constantly striving for more, often to the point of exhaustion. Whether you're facing childhood trauma that’s resurfacing in adulthood or you're simply seeking personal growth, I focus on using your strengths to help you move forward. I have holistic approach to therapy that values each individual's unique experiences and strengths. I am licensed in IL & FL. I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions and experiences. Through active listening, empathy and evidence-based techniques, I assist you in gaining insight, coping skills and resilience. Together, we navigate challenges, identify patterns and foster growth, empowering you to live a more fulfilling life. Build Healthier Relationships: Whether it’s personal relationships or your relationship with yourself, we’ll focus on improving communication, boundaries and emotional connection. Overcome Anxiety & Depression: We’ll develop personalized coping strategies to reduce overwhelming anxiety, address depressive symptoms and help you regain a sense of control over your emotions. Heal from Trauma: If past trauma is affecting your present, we’ll work through it together, allowing you to reclaim your life with greater resilience and emotional freedom. Develop Self-Confidence: Therapy will help you overcome low self-esteem, empowering you to trust yourself and build a more positive self-image. Enhance Personal Growth: We’ll explore your goals, values, and strengths, focusing on personal development that aligns with the life you want to create. Break Negative Cycles: Together, we’ll identify and shift the patterns of overthinking, procrastination, or self-doubt that are holding you back. Through therapy, you can expect to gain new perspectives, practical tools, and a deeper understanding of yourself, ultimately helping you achieve a more balanced, fulfilling life.

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

In your first therapy session with me, we'll focus on building a strong foundation for our therapeutic relationship. We'll start by discussing your reasons for seeking therapy, your goals, and any concerns you may have. I'll provide information about confidentiality, boundaries, and the therapeutic process. We'll explore your personal history, including relevant background information, to better understand your unique experiences and needs. This session is an opportunity for us to get to know each other and collaborate on a plan for your journey towards healing and growth.

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

Recognizing life's complexities and unexpected challenges, I provide culturally competent care, respecting and integrating your values throughout our work together. My aim is to foster a safe environment where you feel empowered to manage life's fluctuations effectively. As your therapist, I prioritize genuine connection, safety, honesty, and open-mindedness, ensuring a relaxed yet passionate approach to our sessions, free from judgment. Expect personalized support that embraces your unique journey with warmth and understanding.

Appointments

Virtual

My treatment methods

Adlerian

I exam the influence of early family dynamics and social context on their current behavior and lifestyle.

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

I identify and challenge negative or unhelpful thought patterns that contribute to distress.

Culturally Sensitive Therapy

I actively listen to client experiences, acknowledging the impact of their cultural identity on your beliefs, values and behaviors. Through this understanding, I tailor therapeutic interventions that are culturally relevant and respectful, ensuring that my approach aligns with their cultural context while promoting healing and growth

Mindfulness-Based Therapy

I integrate mindfulness-based therapy by guiding clients through various mindfulness exercises such as deep breathing, body scans, and mindful awareness of thoughts and emotions. These practices help clients cultivate present-moment awareness, observe their experiences without judgment and develop greater self-compassion.

Solution Focused Brief Treatment

I utilize brief solution-focused therapy by guiding client to explore their strengths and resources, focusing on solutions rather than dwelling on problems. I employ questions that encourage clients to envision their preferred future and identify small, achievable steps towards their goals.