Hi my name is Zelaika (Za-lay-ka). I know taking this step may have been tough but it's great that you are here! I provide a safe non-judgmental space for you to discuss your concerns. Together we can explore what's working in your life and what you would like to change. I do request a 15 minute phone consultation prior to scheduling an appointment to see if we are a good fit. I have worked in various settings including inpatient psychiatry, community outreach after 9/11, outpatient dialysis centers and telehealth therapy over the last 19 years. I have worked with adults of diverse populations and with various challenges. I like to uncover and focus on each persons unique strengths, abilities, and experiences to help guide the therapy process.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
After our first session we work together on prioritizing your goals. We would regularly discuss progress and whether we need to make any changes in the approach or goals. I would seek feedback from you about our work together to find out if your needs are being met. After we have worked together for awhile I would ask you to answer the questionnaires given before therapy started to assess where you are.
What treatment methods and tools do you utilize?
I utilize EMDR, Cognitive Behavior therapy, trauma informed care, strengths based approach, mindfulness and psychodynamic approaches.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
I believe that my ability to connect with people in an empathetic way is my biggest strength. Working in the medical field for most of my career has exposed me to diverse populations with challenges ranging from financial to life threatening illness. I was first introduced to the dialysis world when my grandmother was diagnosed with kidney failure. Helping my grandmother through her journey allowed me to experience what life was like for dialysis patients. I have an ongoing interest in continuing education. Learning new techniques, approaches, treatment modalities and theories are of great importance to me. I would say that I am a lifetime student always open to learning new things.