With over 25 years of experience working with people from all walks of life, I offer guidance to those feeling stuck, hopeless, or helpless. If you feel as if no matter how hard you try, your mind continues to bombard you with negative feedback, I can help you. Through a methodical approach to thought identification, you can learn to pinpoint the thoughts that trigger negative emotions and keep you trapped in a cycle of despair. My goal is to empower you to reclaim control over your mental state and find meaning in your life. Together, we will work towards a brighter and more fulfilling future. I can also teach you how to live a meaningful life based on your values and goals. If you are suffering from PTSD, I can help by providing you with the tools needed to challenge the thoughts that you may have developed as a result of your trauma. If your relationship is suffering due to PTSD symptoms, I can help you develop healthy coping mechanisms that can improve your relationship. I began my career working with undocumented single mothers in need of financial skills to support their families. From there I worked with the undocumented population helping them secure resources for their basic needs and empowering them to become self-sufficient. I also worked with the LGBTQIA+ community in three different roles: providing psychoeducation to newly HIV diagnosed individuals and their families, as a case manager providing resources for newly HIV diagnosed undocumented citizens, and finally, as a clinician providing individual therapy for those with depression, anxiety, or PTSD. Later in my career, I worked with the Forensic Juvenile Department providing in-home family therapy to families involved in the criminal justice system. I have also worked with individuals suffering from personality disorders. Currently, I provide individual and group therapy.

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

Embarking on a journey of therapy is a significant step towards improving mental health and emotional well-being. The first therapy session plays a pivotal role in setting the foundation for this journey. This guide will walk you through what to expect during the initial meeting and how it will help in formulating a diagnosis and subsequent treatment plans. During our first session, the primary goal is to gather comprehensive information about the reasons that have led you to seek therapy. This process involves discussing your current issues, past experiences, and any factors that might be contributing to your present state. The questions asked are designed to provide a holistic view of your situation, enabling a thorough understanding of your needs. Alongside verbal inquiries, I will also use various measurements that were sent to you prior to the session. These assessments might include questionnaires, surveys, or standardized tests designed to gauge specific aspects of your mental health. Together, these tools will help in forming a detailed picture of your situation. Once the information has been collected, I will analyze the data to determine an accurate diagnosis. This step is crucial as it lays the groundwork for identifying the most effective treatment strategies. The diagnosis will encompass your symptoms, their severity, and any underlying conditions that need to be addressed. Based on the diagnosis, I will offer you a range of treatment options that are supported by scientific evidence. These may include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment therapy (ACT) Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for PTSD, and other therapeutic modalities proven to be effective. Rest assured, I am certified in these treatments and have extensive experience in their application. The first therapy session is a vital step in your path to mental well-being. Through a detailed collection of information and careful assessment, we will uncover the root causes of your challenges and pave the way for effective treatment. With evidence-based therapies tailored to your needs, you will be equipped with the tools and support necessary for your journey towards healing and growth. Remember, therapy is a collaborative process, and your active participation and openness will significantly enhance its effectiveness. Together, we will work towards achieving your goals and improving your quality of life.

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

Areas of Expertise • Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) • Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) • Anxiety • Evidence-Based Practice Cognitive Processing Therapy for Trauma: This certification ensures that Veronica is proficient in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), a well-established treatment for PTSD that focuses on modifying unhelpful beliefs related to the trauma. • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Depression: Veronica is certified in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), which helps individuals accept what is out of their personal control and commit to action that improves and enriches their lives, particularly useful for treating depression. • Moral Reconation Therapy (MRT) for Recidivism and Substance Use: This certification shows Veronica’s ability to implement MRT, a cognitive-behavioral therapy aimed at decreasing recidivism rates and treating substance abuse by increasing moral reasoning.

Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.

I love working with young and older adults. Providing life skills to young adults who are just beginning their journey into independence is a profoundly rewarding endeavor. Young adults face a myriad of stressors that can significantly impact their mental health. The pressures of academic achievement, career uncertainty, social relationships, and financial independence can lead to feelings of anxiety and depression. Additionally, past emotional injuries or traumatic events can further complicate their ability to cope with these new responsibilities. Recognizing these factors is essential in providing effective support. As a dedicated therapist, I find profound value in listening to the life stories of older adults, particularly those struggling with depression and anxiety. Each individual's narrative is a unique tapestry of experiences, and through compassionate listening, I aim to provide valuable insight into their journeys. Understanding how they ended up in my room is the first step in helping them find clarity and a path forward. For those feeling trapped in their circumstances, my goal is to help them get unstuck, enabling them to move forward with their lives. This process often involves exploring past experiences and identifying patterns that may be contributing to their current state. By creating a safe and supportive environment, I encourage them to express their feelings and emotions openly, paving the way for healing and growth. I am also passionate about helping individuals who have experienced trauma. My certification in trauma treatment equips me with the necessary skills and knowledge to address these deeply entrenched wounds.

About Veronica Fender