LCSW, 23 years of experience
Dr. Viva has substance abuse with/without medication assistance, anti-violence, acute care treatment, crisis stabilization experience, and clinical support expanding school-aged children to the geriatric population. Therapeutic approaches are CBT, Harm Reduction, and Motivational Interviewing. NJ, DE, national, and USDOT clinical credentials which are LCSW, LCADC, ACS, MAC, and SAP. Dr. Viva is licensed in NJ with 23 years of professional work experience in the areas of mental health, education, and substance abuse. Her experience encompasses helping clients with a variety of concerns such as stress, anxiety, addiction, trauma, abuse, grief, depression, and loss. Dr. Viva is here to support, empower, and facilitate your change process on this wellness journey. Please check out Balm In Gilead Community Services, Inc. website at balmingileadcs.com for additional resources.
During the first session, we will explore your presenting issues and solutions to facilitate the change process. Again, you are the expert and I am the professional; therefore, my role is to support you in your healing journey.
The characteristics that make me unique is I follow your lead because I believe you know what you want but need help with getting it. Also, it is a “WE” instead of you and me. However, here are words from a client: “Dr. White is professional, while also being down to earth. She made me feel comfortable, seen and heard. She asked relevant questions and helped me realize things about myself that I hadn't thought about. When I started therapy with Dr. White, I was anxious and stressed. While I still have work to do on myself, I'm now in a better frame of mind, and feel much better about the direction my life is going.”
The expert of your story is YOU! We will use your strengths in addressing the challenges that interfere with your well-being to be your best self. It takes courage to seek out assistance towards achieving this goal.
CBT assists clients in connecting how their thoughts impact their behavior. This approach is used to solicit awareness of thinking, feeling, and actions. Also, gain some insight as to "why"...
MI helps the client resolve their mixed feelings about changing detrimental behaviors. It is a client-centered approach that focuses on the client and directs behavioral change to achieve goals. Ultimately, it supports the clients' processes and/or stages of change.
Faith-based therapy is an approach to connect with an individual's belief system as a protective factor for progressive change. Also, it may challenge belief systems that are harmful to the individual and create a barrier to a healthy lifestyle.