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Esmeralda Alcantar Plascencia, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Esmeralda Alcantar Plascencia

Esmeralda Alcantar Plascencia

LCSW
14 years of experience
Virtual

Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. I received my Masters in Social Work (MSW) from California State University San Bernardino and have been practicing for the last 14 years. I have been helping those who struggle with stress, anxiety and depression as these are the most common diagnosis. I educate and provide insight on skills that are helpful in managing symptoms in order for my patients to live their best possible self.

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

In our first session together, we will start with introductions as well as reasons for seeking therapy. We will complete an intake which looks into past history and current mental health symptoms. In addition, we will discuss goals for therapy in order to establish a roadmap for future therapy sessions.

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

Having been in the field for the last 14 years, I have developed an array of skills in helping patients in the mental health field. I can honestly say that I love problem solving and listening to my patients. I have learned through my experience to be open, patient and non-judgmental as we all learn to deal with difficult experiences. I believe myself to be empathetic and culturally competent as I have worked with many ethnic backgrounds provided my bilingual capacities. Nevertheless, I am a lifelong learner who is open to learning especially from my patients on a day to day basis.

About Esmeralda Alcantar Plascencia

Identifies as

Specializes in

Serves ages

Licensed in

Accepts

Appointments

Virtual

My treatment methods

Dialectical Behavior (DBT)

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based therapy model that focuses on treating mood disorders, and in changing behavioral patterns such as self-harm and substance abuse. I have utilized DBT with patients throughout my years in practice and patients have voiced relief in their mental health symptoms. Together with the patient I strive to provide new skills that will assist with changing maladaptive behaviors into more helpful and healthier skills that assist with responding to triggers.

Existential

As a therapist I utilize Existential Therapy as a way to help my patients understand their purpose in life and how they fit in this world. I explore how choices influence the future and how they affect the individual who struggles with anxiety, fear and possibly addiction.

Motivational Interviewing

In utilizing the Motivational Interviewing core skills of open-ended questions, affirmations, reflective listening, and summaries I have assisted patients in giving and finding a voice to their personal reasons for change. Patients are able to explore and resolve any uncertainties they may be experiencing as a result of stress and anxieties including change.

Psychoeducation

I have strived to provide psychoeducation to all my patients as well as answers to any questions they may have about their mental health condition. Education and knowledge are power therefore I strive to educate my patients as much as possible as this often leads to a better understanding of treatment.

Supportive

As a therapist I strive to provide respect, compassion, and empathy to all my patients as often what they are needing/seeking is support. Providing the support that is needed during a time of struggle is key to treatment and growth for many. Therefore, by providing a supportive psychotherapy experience that assist with uncomfortable symptoms often leads to a healthy recovery.