Mary Okyere, LMHC - Therapist at Grow Therapy

Mary Okyere

Mary Okyere

(she/her)

LMHC
8 years of experience
Virtual

Hi there! I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) based in Massachusetts, with a Master’s degree from William James College in Boston. With 8 years of experience, I specialize in helping individuals overcome family, relationship, and career stress, as well as burnout. My goal is to empower you to become the best version of yourself.I use a variety of therapeutic techniques tailored to each client’s unique needs. Some of the key approaches I incorporate are: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps you identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors. Mindfulness-Based Therapy: Encourages you to focus on the present moment and develop a non-judgmental awareness of your thoughts and feelings. Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT): Focuses on finding solutions and setting achievable goals. Person-Centered Therapy: Emphasizes empathy, unconditional positive regard, and active listening to support you in your growth. Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT): Helps you understand and transform your emotional responses, particularly in relationships. Psychoeducation: Provides you with information and resources to better understand your mental health and coping strategies. These techniques allow me to address a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges.

What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?

In your first session with me, you can expect a warm and welcoming environment where we can start building a trusting relationship. Here’s a brief overview of what typically happens: Introduction and Rapport Building: We’ll start with introductions and some casual conversation to help you feel comfortable. Discussing Your Concerns: I’ll ask you about the reasons you’re seeking therapy and what specific issues or challenges you’re facing. Background Information: We’ll go over your personal history, including any relevant medical, psychological, and social background. Setting Goals: Together, we’ll identify your goals for therapy and what you hope to achieve. Explaining the Process: I’ll explain how therapy works, what you can expect from our sessions, and answer any questions you might have. Confidentiality: We’ll discuss confidentiality and its limits to ensure you understand how your information will be handled. The first session is all about getting to know each other and setting the foundation for our work together. My goal is to make you feel heard, understood, and supported from the very beginning.

Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.

As a mental health counselor, I believe my greatest strengths lie in my ability to create a safe and non-judgmental space for my clients. Here are a few key strengths: Empathy and Compassion: I genuinely care about my clients’ well-being and strive to understand their experiences and emotions. Active Listening: I prioritize truly hearing what my clients are saying, which helps me to better understand their needs and concerns. Tailored Approach: I adapt my therapeutic techniques to fit each client’s unique situation, ensuring that the therapy is relevant and effective. Building Trust: I work hard to establish a trusting relationship, which is essential for effective therapy. Professional Knowledge: With my education from William James College and 8 years of experience, I bring a solid foundation of knowledge and skills to my practice. Supportive Environment: I aim to create a welcoming and supportive atmosphere where clients feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings. These strengths help me to support my clients in their journey towards healing and personal growth.

Appointments

Virtual

My treatment methods

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has been a cornerstone of my therapeutic approach since the beginning of my career as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. Over the years, I have found CBT to be highly effective in helping clients identify and challenge negative thought patterns that contribute to their emotional and behavioral issues. In my practice, I utilize CBT to empower clients by teaching them practical skills to manage and reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. I work collaboratively with clients to explore the connections between their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and to develop strategies for breaking the cycle of negative thinking. For example, I often incorporate cognitive restructuring techniques, where we work together to identify cognitive distortions and replace them with more balanced, realistic thoughts. Additionally, I emphasize the importance of behavioral activation, encouraging clients to engage in activities that improve their mood and overall well-being. My approach to CBT is always tailored to the individual needs of my clients. I believe in creating a supportive and non-judgmental environment where clients feel safe to explore their thoughts and emotions. By combining CBT with other therapeutic modalities, such as mindfulness and person-centered therapy, I aim to provide a holistic treatment plan that fosters long-term change and personal growth.

Person-centered (Rogerian)

I have a deep commitment to the principles of Person-Centered Therapy (PCT), which emphasizes the importance of creating a supportive and non-judgmental therapeutic environment. My experience with PCT spans several years, during which I have helped clients navigate a wide range of personal and emotional challenges. This approach has allowed me to build strong, trusting relationships with my clients, fostering a sense of safety and openness. In my practice, I use Person-Centered Therapy to empower clients by focusing on their individual experiences and perspectives. I strive to create a warm and empathetic environment where clients feel heard and valued. By practicing active listening and providing unconditional positive regard, I help clients explore their thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. This collaborative approach encourages clients to discover their own solutions and promotes personal growth and self-acceptance.