Kevin Foley, LICSW - Therapist at Grow Therapy

Kevin Foley

Kevin Foley

LICSW
7 years of experience
Direct
Authentic
Challenging
Virtual

As a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) with a Master’s in Social Work and a Master’s in Physical Education, I have dedicated my life to the holistic understanding and treatment of trauma, healing, and personal growth. My journey has been shaped by my service as a veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom and a former police officer, experiences that have ingrained in me a deep sense of duty to serve my country, community, and my fellow human beings. These roles have provided me with unique insights into the complexities of the human experience—insights that inform my approach to therapy, where I strive to create a transformative space for healing. My approach to therapy is much more than traditional talk therapy; it’s about engaging on multiple levels—physical, emotional, and psychological. I work to educate, nurture, and guide individuals as they navigate the depths of their trauma and rediscover their inherent strength. I believe that true healing requires more than just surface-level conversations, and that’s why I encourage a collaborative partnership with my clients. Together, we delve deeply into their experiences, with a focus on understanding the root causes of their struggles and developing strategies for lasting change. I bring a sense of curiosity and excitement to every session, believing that therapy is not only a process of healing but also one of discovery. My direct yet compassionate style helps foster a safe space where clients can explore their challenges without judgment, knowing they are supported by someone who has walked through many of life’s most difficult terrains. I push for productive, meaningful sessions that move beyond superficial fixes to truly unravel the patterns and behaviors that hold people back.

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

Our sessions will be collaborative. Therapy is not something I do to you or for you—it’s something we do together. You are the expert on your own life, and while I bring my expertise in trauma, healing, and behavior change, your input is invaluable. I encourage open communication and want you to feel comfortable expressing what’s working, what’s not, and what you need from me. Together, we’ll craft a plan that suits your unique needs and adjust it as you progress. I am here to support you, but also to empower you to take an active role in your own healing. This collaborative approach ensures that the work we do is tailored to you, allowing for more effective and personalized care. One of the things that sets my approach apart is the depth to which we’ll explore your experiences. I don’t believe in surface-level fixes or quick solutions. Healing, especially when it comes to trauma, often requires us to dig deep and explore the root causes of the patterns and behaviors that keep you stuck. We will go beyond simply managing symptoms to understand why they exist in the first place. This can be a challenging process at times, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. By working through the underlying issues, we’re able to create long-term, sustainable change rather than short-term relief. I also bring a holistic approach to therapy, which means I view you as a whole person—mind, body, and spirit. I understand that trauma and challenges impact not just your thoughts and emotions, but also your physical body and overall sense of well-being. With my background in physical education as well as social work, I integrate aspects of physical awareness and movement into therapy when appropriate. For some, this might involve practices like mindfulness or breathwork, while for others, we might explore how physical health and emotional health are interconnected. The body often carries trauma and stress in ways we aren’t always aware of, and learning to listen to and care for your body can be a powerful part of the healing process. Another key aspect of my approach is that I bring a sense of curiosity and excitement into our sessions. Therapy is not just about solving problems; it’s also about discovery. Whether it’s learning more about yourself, understanding how your past has shaped your present, or finding new ways to navigate life’s challenges, I see therapy as a process of exploration. I want to help you not only heal but also discover strengths, potentials, and insights

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

Therapy is a process of discovery, and I genuinely believe that even in the hardest moments, there is something valuable to uncover. Whether it’s about learning more about yourself, understanding how past experiences have shaped your present, or finding new ways to navigate life’s challenges, I approach our work with a sense of exploration. My goal is to help you not only heal but also discover new strengths and potentials you might not have realized were there. This sense of curiosity also allows us to adapt our work as needed—no two people are alike, and I’m always open to trying new approaches that fit your specific needs. At the core of my work is a strong desire to serve and support others, a value that has been central throughout my life. As a veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom and a former police officer, my focus has always been on service, whether to my country, community, or now, to individuals seeking healing and growth. I bring that same sense of duty into my therapeutic practice, ensuring that I am fully present, invested, and committed to your progress. I see my role as more than just a therapist—I am here to be your guide, your partner, and your support as you navigate the challenges you’re facing. I take this responsibility seriously and am dedicated to helping you achieve the goals you set for yourself. In working with me, you can expect a blend of directness, collaboration, and depth. I’ll push you to confront difficult issues but will do so with the utmost care and respect. Together, we’ll explore not just what’s happening on the surface, but the deeper factors contributing to your current struggles. You’ll have a partner who is as committed to your progress as you are and who brings a unique holistic perspective to the table. Ultimately, my aim is to help you find healing, growth, and a renewed sense of empowerment, guiding you toward living a life that feels more aligned, fulfilling, and authentic.

Appointments

Virtual

My treatment methods

Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)

I utilize Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) by creating a safe and empathetic environment for clients to explore their emotions and relational patterns. Begins, by assessing each client’s attachment history and current dynamics. I use interventions such as reflecting emotions, validating experiences, and restructuring negative patterns to foster secure emotional bonds. Encourage open communication and vulnerability between partners or within the family system. Additionally, incorporate experiential techniques like enactments or role-plays to help clients connect emotionally and shift towards healthier relational patterns. Regularly assessing progress and adapt interventions accordingly to support lasting change.

Humanistic

I incorporate the humanistic therapy approach by prioritizing the individual’s subjective experience, self-awareness, and personal growth. Begins, by establishing a genuine and empathetic therapeutic relationship built on unconditional positive regard, empathy, and congruence. Encouraging clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in a nonjudgmental and supportive environment. Utilizing techniques such as active listening, reflection, and open-ended questioning to facilitate self-exploration and insight. Fostering client autonomy and empowerment by encouraging them to take responsibility for their choices and actions. Incorporate person-centered techniques such as focusing on the here and now, exploring values and meaning, and promoting self-acceptance and authenticity. Continuously collaborating with clients to set goals and objectives that align with their personal values and aspirations. Regularly review progress and adjust interventions as needed to support clients’ ongoing growth and development.

Cognitive Processing (CPT)

I implement Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) to help clients address and reframe maladaptive thought patterns related to traumatic experiences. Begins, by conducting a thorough assessment to identify the specific cognitive distortions and symptoms related to the trauma. Collaboratively educating clients about the connections between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, emphasizing the role of cognitive distortions in maintaining distress. Utilizing cognitive restructuring techniques to challenge and modify negative beliefs and interpretations associated with the trauma, such as self-blame or feelings of helplessness. Guiding clients through structured exercises, such as writing or recording their trauma narratives, to process and reframe their experiences in a safe and supportive environment. Integrating mindfulness and relaxation techniques to help clients manage distressing emotions and sensations associated with traumatic memories. Additionally, providing psychoeducation on common reactions to trauma and coping strategies to support clients’ ongoing recovery and resilience. Regularly monitoring progress and adjust interventions as needed to ensure clients are making meaningful gains in their cognitive and emotional well-being.