Larissa Tekerian
I am a licensed clinical social worker in San Diego, CA. I am passionate about people and helping you realize your full potential. I am committed to providing a supportive space where you can be vulnerable and feel like I am your confidante. I believe that working as a team is essential for growth and progress.
I can also help identify underlying and unresolved issues so that we may collaborate on a treatment plan to address those issues.
If you are highly motivated for therapy we can jump right into it, or if you are struggling with motivation I will work alongside with you every step of the way to develop motivation and to navigate through challenges. I commend you for taking the first steps toward healing and growth.
First session
Besides a quick discussion about what you may expect from therapy as well as informing about the process, I mostly listen to you and ask clarifying questions in order to get a sense of what you need and are seeking from therapy. The first session is really about having you feel comfortable and willing to share what brought you to the session. If you think I am a good fit, we will discuss goals for therapy. My hope is that after the first session, you feel comfortable sharing thoughts and feelings so that we may discuss next steps and what sessions will look like moving forward.
Strengths
My approach to therapy strength-based therapy which helps me identify what skills you already have and may start using. I can also help identify underlying and unresolved issues so that we may collaborate on a treatment plan to address those issues. I understand how difficult therapy can be and that motivation may wax and wane. I enjoy encouraging motivation so that you can effectively complete treatment.
Ideal clients
I love working with clients from all walks of life. I have most experience with the Veteran population but also enjoy working with clients who are experiencing new transitions in life or are seeking a change whether it be a new job, exploring new passions, or leaving/seeking a relationship.
Treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I have used CBT to treat co-occurring mood and substance use disorders and witnessed how effective it is with clients who consistently attend sessions as well as complete brief homework assignments between sessions. I adapt my style of therapy with my clients depending on their particular learning style. It is a collaborative process and I enjoy seeing my clients using the skills that they've learned in session.
Cognitive Processing (CPT)
I have treated Veterans with PTSD using CPT and have seen a significant decrease in symptoms in about 12 sessions. This manualized approach is helpful for clients to follow along as I provide skills and assignments. Clients learn new skills weekly and practice skills in between sessions. They will also complete measures weekly to see if and how much symptoms have decreased and I adjust my approach accordingly.
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
While DBT is primarily used to treat severe and complex emotion dysregulation, it is effective for so many issues. I begin each session with a mindfulness exercise and focus on a specific skills for the session such as distress tolerance, emotion regulation, or interpersonal effectiveness. We will discuss specific situations and experiences and practice the skills so that the client feels empowered to use these techniques in their everyday life.
Gottman method
I use this practical and skill-based method which is tailored to a couple's unique needs and goals. Couples learn techniques to improve communication, manage conflict, build connection, and identify their own needs in order to achieve desired relationship goals.
Location
Virtual sessions