LCSW, 25 years of experience
It's inspiring to see people thrive, especially when life presents challenges. Navigating tough times can feel overwhelming, and with the current global unrest, it's natural to question your path and place in the world. Coping with these pressures, whether they stem from emotional distress, anxiety, employment or relationship issues, or even trauma, is incredibly difficult. I'm here to help. Let's work together to transform your life experiences into a source of purpose and strength.
The first session will be a collaborative exploration designed to help the therapist understand your unique needs. I will try to understand you as a whole person – your history, relationships, values, coping mechanisms (both helpful and unhelpful), cultural background, and aspirations. Taking this approach allows for tailored interventions to prevent generic advice and ensures the therapy is relevant and impactful.
In a field where individuals often arrive feeling vulnerable and disheartened, I aim to consistently champion clients' inherent capabilities for "greatness and life success" through a strength-based, optimistic, and empowering philosophy that underpins all therapeutic works.
I'm glad you're here and seeking support. My focus is entirely on your well-being and growth. We'll work together to identify and amplify your existing strengths, challenge unhelpful thought patterns, and empower you to make positive changes that align with your goals. Challenges are a part of life, but I believe in your remarkable ability to adapt, learn, and transform obstacles into opportunities. You possess an innate capacity for growth and elevation. If you're ready to regain a sense of belonging and direction, let's connect. Together, we can chart a new path toward your personal greatness and a more fulfilling life.
Esther Dubique offers therapy covered by UnitedHealthcare/Optum - Medicaid in Virginia.
In my practice, CBT serves as a foundational approach, often integrated with other therapeutic modalities depending on the individual's needs. I've found that the structured, goal-oriented nature of CBT, coupled with its emphasis on "homework" or practical exercises between sessions, really helps to solidify new skills and promote lasting change. It moves beyond just talking about problems to actively solving them.
Faith-based counseling can help clients navigate ethical dilemmas and make decisions that align with their religious values. I incorporate faith to emphasize healthy relationships with God, self, and others recognizing that spiritual struggles can impact mental health, and conversely, mental health challenges can affect one's faith. The spiritual resources used are prayer and meditation, scripture or religious texts, community involvement, and discussions about faith.
I've witnessed firsthand how clients, who previously felt overwhelmed and out of control with their emotions, can learn to identify, understand, and then effectively manage those intense feelings. In practice, DBT empowers clients to build a life that feels meaningful and worth living, even in the face of significant emotional pain and life challenges. It's an incredibly rewarding treatment method to practice.
My approach to grief therapy is person-centered, compassionate, and tailored to the individual's specific needs and stage of grief. Grief therapy is a profound journey, and my role is to walk alongside clients, providing guidance, support, and the tools they need to navigate their pain, honor their loss, and ultimately rediscover hope and a renewed sense of purpose in their lives.
In essence, I approach every interaction with empathy, understanding, and a deep awareness of how past experiences shape present behaviors and needs, ultimately fostering an environment conducive to healing and growth.