New to Grow
Hi, my name is Janice Barrocas. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in counseling people who are losing good eyesight. I'll never forget the first time a client grappling with declining vision said she loved working with someone who "really gets me." She went on to describe how many therapists she'd tried over the years who did not understand the medical aspects and psychological issues present with an acquired disability. This is why I became a therapist. People who feel see, heard, and understood are are better able to adjust to vision loss, including career changes and tension in personal relationships. Would you benefit from a safe space to process the physical and social trauma related to losing independence and dealing with uncertainty about the future? Let's talk. I can't wait to hear from you!
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
In our first session (and even before the first session) we will discuss how you prefer to communicate. Rest assured we will make any accommodations as necessary to complete the intake paperwork. Next we assess your current needs, level of functioning, and discuss what you would like to accomplish. Counseling is a safe space to process whatever is on your mind so please do not hesitate to bring up issues or questions at any point. I love questions!
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
My therapeutic approach is humanistic and deeply rooted in mindful self-compassion. In working with clients my greatest strengths are developing coping skills, assertive speech techniques, and confidence in social situations that call for self-advocacy.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
My specialty is working with anxiety, depression, and self-criticism during the 7 stages of adjusting to vision loss (Tuttle & Tuttle, 2004): 1. Physical and social trauma 2. Shock and denial 3. Mourning and withdrawal 4. Succumbing and depression 5. Reassess and reaffirmation 6. Coping and mobilization 7. Self-acceptance and self-esteem
Compassion Focused
Mindful self compassion is a proven way to accept yourself, build inner strength and increase our ability to manages the full range of life's worries.
Strength-Based
While we are quick to critique ourselves most people struggle with recognizing their own strengths, abilities and interests. Having a neutral, unconditionally supportive safe space to process whatever is on your mind helps shift the focus and uncover hidden talents and strengths we can tap into in times of difficulty.