New to Grow
Hello. My name is LaDonna and I am an LCSW. Welcome, I am glad you're here. Reaching out for help can be scary and I applaud you taking this first step. My goal with therapy is to provide a space where you feel comfortable being yourself, where you can talk openly, feel heard and begin to work through what has been weighing on you. I see therapy as a collaborative effort to find what works for you to feel stronger, more balanced and ultimately, more connected to what matters most to you in a world that often seems "un-connected". I have both a Bachelors and a Masters in Social Work. I have worked in the field of social work for 20 plus years. In my lifetime I have been a daughter, sister, partner, wife, mother (to both human and fur baby) and friend.
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
My first session is geared towards building rapport and discussing expectations. We can spend time discussing what brought you to therapy and what you are hoping to achieve in this work. My hope is that the client feels heard, not interrogated or judged.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
I have worked in a variety of positions quite literally from the cradle (in adoptions)to the grave (in hospice care). I have a natural curiosity of others and enjoy the collaborative relationship that therapy provides. I utilize many key innovations from several therapy modalities to find the right fit for each client. I believe in utilizing humor, not as a distraction, but as a coping skill.
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
This type of therapy helps people learn how to handle difficult thoughts and emotions without letting them take over their lives. ACT is helpful when learning new ways to respond to experiences with a greater awareness and self compassion. Together, we can work on what truly matters to you with consideration of your values, goals and challenges.
Motivational Interviewing
This style of therapy helps people to explore their own reasoning for a desire to change. What motivates you to change? Together we can look at what may be getting in your way and build confidence in your ability to move past it, closer to your goals.
Biofeedback
This tool helps people to learn how their body responds to stress, emotions and trauma. This is especially helpful for people that often feel anxious, overwhelmed or "stressed". We can learn how to better regulate our physical reactions to emotional issues. This is a collaborative process where we practice these skills together to use them in everyday life.
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
This approach helps people to learn practical tools for managing intense emotions, improving relationships and coping with stressful situations. This therapy encompasses many new "skills" , such as mindfulness, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness and emotional regulations. Coaching and Group work are also utilized. This therapy can effective in helping people feel more balanced and in control of reactions.