Hi, I'm Serena. I am here to provide a safe, compassionate, and supportive space for you to address the challenges you are experiencing in order to live a more enjoyable and fulfilling life. I have many years of experience working with mood disorders, and feel comfortable treating a wide range of mental health conditions on the continuum from mild to severe. My areas of expertise are mood and anxiety disorders, stress management, anger management, personal growth, body/mind/spirit wellness, life transitions, self-esteem, sleep disorders, and relationship issues.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
In our first session together, we'll start with introductions, then review your intake form and surveys, and dive into the specific challenges you're facing. This will help us to create a tailored plan to use as we work together in follow-up sessions.
What treatment methods and tools do you utilize?
I utilize an eclectic approach, taking from different therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, Energy Psychology, Holistic/Integrative, Person Centered, Strength Based, Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy, and Somatic Therapies. My focus is less on the theoretical approach and more on what you are open to and ready to explore, as I believe in customizing the treatment plan and interventions for each individual.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
My 30+ years of lived experience with a mood disorder and my recovery journey informs my practice in many ways, as I have a great deal of empathy, compassion, and understanding for those who are struggling with mental health issues. I strive to be the type of therapist that I wished I had decades ago when I most needed guidance, support, and hope. Everyone's path is unique and significant, and it is a privilege to walk alongside you on your journey.
Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.
I work with adults 18 and over who would like support with mood and anxiety disorders, stress management, anger management, personal growth, body/mind/spirit wellness, life transitions, self-esteem, sleep disorders, and relationship issues, among others. I work with various cultural backgrounds, belief systems, genders, sexual orientations, challenges, and needs, and acknowledge and highlight the dignity, worth, strengths, and potential of each individual with whom I work. I especially enjoy working with young adults and assisting them with life transitions that can be difficult to navigate alone.