Hi! My name is Stefanie. My goal as a therapist is to take the weight of the world from your shoulders, to mine, to help you become just a little lighter. I have held multiple leadership roles in non-profit inpatient drug and alcohol programs who treat adult men and women, and their children. I have also worked inside jails and prisons treating individuals struggling with substance abuse. Through this experience, I have cultivated a trauma-informed approach in my practice. I specialize in addiction treatment for the individual, and their family unit as well. I am passionate about supporting those looking to rebuild their foundation often lost throughout years of incarceration and addiction. My goal is to help people who have had high-barrier trauma; for example, incarceration, addiction, childhood trauma or a moderate-severe mental health concern and help them re-integrate into the world. I enjoy supporting individuals in life transitions of recovery and re-entry and continue to sharpen my skillset in order to do so. **Weekend appointments are reserved for existing clients only. New clients, please book a weekday slot for your first appointment. Thank you for your understanding!**
In our first session together, we'll start with brief introductions, then dive into the specific challenges you're facing. I will review the appropriate documentation with you and ask clarifying questions. This will help me create an informed treatment plan for us to work through in follow-up sessions. If I believe you would be best fit by an outside provider, we will cover the details of the referral process during our first meeting.
While working with clients struggling with addiction and re-entry, I often start treatment with identification of personal bias, shame, and stigma. Addressing the shame and stigma associated with being incarcerated and addiction is essential in therapy to help individuals heal and move forward in their recovery journey. I approach clients with unconditional positive regard, which involves accepting and valuing clients for who they are, regardless of their thoughts, behaviors, or circumstances.
Relational therapy aims to build an individual's sense of self and agency, as well as patience with and trust in others. The individual will learn about boundaries, compromise, and healthy balance in relationships.