I value authenticity, empathy, and self-awareness, both for myself and my clients, and as a critical part of the therapeutic process (I also take advantage of the healing power of laughter whenever possible!). I aim to normalize and validate my clients’ experiences without judgment, and above all, provide the most basic of human needs: to feel seen and heard. Hi! My name is Stephanie (Stephanie or Stevie is fine) and I have been providing therapy in NJ exclusively via telehealth for about the last 4 years (prior to that, in person). I have a deep passion and respect for the power of therapy to change lives, which I have been privileged to witness in my work with clients, as well as in my personal life, both through the consistent use of therapy as part of my own self-care, as well as having spent the last 20 years raising two children with special needs. If you have been struggling with symptoms of depression or anxiety, particularly if they are related to a traumatic experience, I would love the opportunity to work with you to reduce your symptoms and help you experience a present that is not overshadowed by situations and events from your past. I love working with women ages 20 to 30-something who are still in academia or just starting out in their careers, but also love working with women of any age. I frequently work with survivors of child sexual abuse, as well as those struggling with issues related to self-worth, but work with other conditions as well.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
In our first session, we will review the intake paperwork, I will share some information with you, and then will ask you to tell me about what brought you to therapy at this time. The first few sessions are really about building rapport, since there is very little that can be accomplished without a strong therapeutic relationship as a foundation. On the whole, clients can expect to get as much out of therapy as they are willing to put into it. And to laugh. A lot. And possibly cry, since I do have a track record of clients becoming emotional during our sessions (that's what tissues are for!) Different clients have different needs or goals for therapy, and in turn, I feel like I am somewhat of a different therapist to different clients. Some are very focused on learning coping strategies, while others are looking for someone to talk to who is objective, non-judgmental, and has a fresh perspective. Some are living with chronic physical, mental or other conditions and are looking for a holding environment in which they can grieve the loss of their independence, or their former life. But for me, the most important thing I want my clients to take away from our sessions is the feeling of being truly seen and heard, without judgment or reservation.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
While experience and education are an absolute necessity to do this work, I believe that my lived experience has had a profound impact on both my ability to build strong therapeutic relationships and to be a more effective therapist. My background has provided me with a great deal of lived experience that can be drawn upon when building relationships with clients. I have had the privilege of having known, grown up with, and cared deeply about people from a variety of backgrounds, races, nationalities, gender identities, sexual orientations, etc. In terms of strengths, I am unfailingly authentic, resilient, intelligent, curious, non-judgmental, and (at least in my personal life) hilarious ;) And by the way, all of those strengths? They were not so much developed as they were uncovered…through therapy. :) *My practice is focused primarily on treating adults who identify as female as well as being a welcoming space for members of the LGBTQIA+ community. I do not currently treat cisgender heterosexual males, children or adolescents. Visit my website for client feedback: www.of2mindstherapy.com
About Stephanie (Stevie) Willoughby LCSW
Identifies as
Specializes in
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VirtualMy treatment methods
Psychodynamic
Exploring how our past influences who we are today, including the choices we make, how we engage in relationships, and our overall perception of ourselves and the world around us.
Psychoeducation
Psychoeducation is a therapy intervention that involves the therapist providing their client with information about their diagnosis, symptoms, or the method of treatment used.
Trauma Informed Care
Trauma-informed care acknowledges the need to understand a patient's life experiences in order to deliver effective care
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
CBT helps you become aware of inaccurate or negative thinking so you can view challenging situations more clearly and respond to them in a more effective way. Identification of "cognitive distortions" for the purpose of reframing or restructuring maladaptive thinking patterns.
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
DBT focuses on helping people accept the reality of their lives and their behaviors, as well as helping them learn to change their lives, including their unhelpful behaviors. Key concepts include radical acceptance; emotional regulation; distress tolerance and mindfulness.
On average, Surest (formerly Bind) clients pay $0-$25
For a personalized estimate, verify your insurance when you book a session.
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