Hi, my name is Sarah Kushnir, I am a LCSW and have been working in mental health for the past decade. I believe in teaching skills to patients so they are well-equipped to be able to process their thoughts and feelings, to be able to thrive in their world. It is important to walk with the patient on their healing journey and allow them to be the guide for treatment.
Patients can expect to be interviewed about their present symptoms, focusing on frequency, intensity, and duration. Patients can also expect to discuss relevant history and each system in their life in order for me to better understand them and conceptualize treatment. Patients can also expect to get empathy and support in order to build rapport and trust; it is vital patients feel comfortable.
I feel my greatest strength is getting on people's level, being non-judgmental and open to every person I meet.
I use CBT with all my patients, it helps patients process their thoughts and feelings in order to have healthier thinking, reducing and eliminating unhealthy thought patterns.
I use this treatment for trauma, it is very effective at reshaping unhealthy beliefs associated with trauma.
I use DBT regularly to treat patients with the four tenets of DBT: distress tolerance, mindfulness, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness skills.
I do couples counseling, focusing on connection and communication with the couple. I also use Gottman methods.
I use MIT to help patients address potential changes that need made.