My passion is helping others to live their best and most productive lives. I strive to empower my clients to be their most authentic selves by learning to manage life stressors and to overcome past experiences. I work from an eclectic theoretical approach, using modalities such as CBT, DBT, and Mindfulness, to support clients to learn effective coping strategies and to build self-esteem.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
In our first session, we will explore your reasons for seeking therapy, discuss my clinical approaches to therapy, and create an individualized plan that will help you meet your personal goals.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
My greatest strength as a therapist is my person-centered approach. I believe that all clients are the experts of their own lives; I simply support and empower clients to live their best lives. I pride myself in being empathetic, authentic, and providing others hope for the future.
Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.
I have experience working with clients who present with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and a myriad of other mental and/or behavioral health conditions. My role is to partner with clients to support positive growth and self-actualization. I work with individuals of all ages and their families to develop skills to successfully navigate life’s challenges.
About Stephanie Gurka
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VirtualMy treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
CBT is an evidenced based practice which is intended to help client's identify and challenge irrational or unhelpful thoughts which negatively impact one's emotions and behaviors. The basic idea is that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are all interconnected. I utilize this structured approach with clients specifically by utilizing thought logs and other homework sheets which allow the client to practice skills outside of session.
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
DBT focuses on helping individuals develop skills to manage intense emotions, improve relationships, and navigate the challenges of daily life. I utilize this approach with clients by focusing on the key components of DBT: mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, interpersonal effectiveness, self-care, validation, and radical acceptance.
Mindfulness-Based Therapy
MBT is a type of therapy that integrates mindfulness meditation with techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Its goal is to help individuals become more aware of their thoughts, emotions, and bodily sensations, while fostering an attitude of non-judgmental acceptance towards their experiences. I frequently utilize guided meditation & body scans with clients.
Trauma Informed Care
I recognize that most people seeking therapy have experienced some level of trauma in their lives. This may impact their current mental health functioning. I make sure to screen for and address any related concerns. I am also trained in Trauma-Focused CBT.
Person-centered (Rogerian)
Rogerian Therapy is a Humanistic approach that emphasizes empathy, authenticity, and unconditional positive regard. I employ these tenets to develop a strong therapeutic rapport with clients.