Monica Hart, LCSW - Therapist at Grow Therapy

Monica Hart

Monica Hart

(she/her)

LCSW
16 years of experience
Virtual

Welcome! I’m Monica Hart, a licensed clinical social worker and I'm so glad you’re here. As a therapist, my goal is to create a space where you feel safe, seen, and understood—without all the clichés like laying on a couch or overly formal setups. I strive to have sessions feel like a conversation to discuss what is going on while identifying your strengths and current barriers. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed by the constant pressures of daily life, dealing with difficult emotions, or just trying to figure out your next steps, I'm here to help you navigate it all with compassion, creativity, and even a little humor. Together, we’ll explore ways to tackle life’s challenges without judgment and find practical tools that make sense for you. You can expect a mix of warmth, insight, and maybe even the occasional relatable meme reference because therapy doesn’t have to be stiff—it can be real, human, and empowering. I look forward to working with you!

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

My clients typically tell me how much better they feel after one session. Rapport building and what has brought you in is usually where we begin; I want to hear your story! I don't want anyone to feel uncomfortable or as if they are discussing their past with someone they don't know. I believe in going at your pace as you are comfortable. Mostly, clients tell me they feel like they have chatted with a friend but realize there has been growth in the conversation. To me, that is they way it should be.

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

I truly believe in bringing the human experience into my therapeutic approach and I model that by showing up authentically in sessions. In saying that, I hope you allow that for yourself as well! Need to fidget in your chair, drink a beverage or doodle while we are in session? Please do! Curiosity and creativity allow me to tailor my therapeutic approach to your unique needs and I value your feedback throughout the entire process.

Appointments

Virtual

My treatment methods

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

I use CBT as a way to further empower clients to transform the way they perceive and interact with their world. At its core, CBT is rooted in the understanding that our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are intricately connected. These skills help us identify and challenge distorted or unhelpful thinking patterns and guide us towards healthier emotional responses and more constructive actions. Using this approach also offers practical tools to address immediate struggles, such as anxiety or depression, but also fosters long-term resilience by encouraging a deeper awareness of internal dialogue.

Trauma Informed Care

It allows a compassionate and holistic approach that honors the deep impact of trauma on a person’s life. Trauma can fundamentally alter how individuals perceive themselves, others, and the world around them which can often lead to feelings of disconnection, fear, or powerlessness. By employing Trauma-Informed Care, I am able to create a stable, non-judgmental environment that prioritizes the client’s sense of agency and emotional safety. Through this lens, therapy becomes a collaborative process where trust and empowerment are at the forefront, allowing the client to regain control over their narrative and rebuild their life in a way that fosters resilience and self-compassion.

Dialectical Behavior (DBT)

DBT offers a balance between acceptance and change, providing clients with the tools to navigate emotional experiences without being overwhelmed by them. It emphasizes mindfulness, helping clients stay present and grounded while simultaneously teaching skills for regulation, distress tolerance, and building healthy relationships with others. I enjoy bringing DBT skills into session because it allows a structured yet flexible approach that validates the while empowering them to take actionable steps.

Mindfulness-Based Therapy

Mindfulness invites you to step out of the autopilot mode that often drives stress, anxiety, and emotional reactivity. It helps you develop a more intentional, compassionate relationship with your inner experiences. By helping clients become more attuned to the present without judgment, mindfulness fosters emotional clarity, reducing the power of negative thoughts and enhances self-regulation. It is especially valuable for clients who feel trapped in cycles of worry or rumination since it provides a space to observe experiences with curiosity rather than through a critical lens.