J. Marie Garrett
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both Washington, D.C. as well as in the State of Maryland. I received my Master of Social Work degree from Western Michigan University, and I have been providing mental health services to children, teens, adults, couples & families over twenty years. Through my work with the various individuals, it has been my attempt to help them reach their desired treatment goals.
First session
During our first session, we will engage in brief introductions. The clients will be afforded an opportunity to share some personal history (i.e. family background, relevant school or work history, past traumas, etc) & afterwards their reason for currently seeking mental health services.
Strengths
I feel that my greatest strengths as a therapist are my ability to exhibit empathy, unconditional regard, and demonstrating active listening skills. As a result of these strengths, it enables the clients to feel valued, respected and transparent which assists in helping them set up appropriate treatment goals.
Ideal clients
I really enjoy working with a variety of people. Their race, gender, age, and lifestyle choices has not been an issue for me. However, since I have chosen to work & provide therapy services virtually, I will not be working with youth under 17 years old.
Treatment methods
Eclectic
There are times when I take an eclectic approach to therapy. Why? Because I realize each person and/or couple have their own unique concerns and needs which may require varying therapeutic approaches. So as I have noted below, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, etc. are just a few utilized.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
CBT is an evidenced based treatment modality used quite frequently with clients in helping them to address dysfunctional emotions, thinking & behaviors. During my work with clients, it is my goal to assist them in challenging & changing their distorted thinking and maladaptive behaviors. It is used most frequently with individuals experiencing anxiety and depression.
Solution-Focused Brief Treatment
I have had the opportunity to use Solution Focused Brief Therapy primarily while working with EAP clientele who had minimal counseling sessions (6 - 8). It is a goal-directed collaborative approach to psychotherapeutic change.