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Blake Summer

Blake Summer

(he/they)

LCSW
9 years of experience
Authentic
Open-minded
Virtual

I work with individuals who grew up with a pervasive sense that they were “outside the box”. Perhaps this was due to neurodivergence, cultural differences or struggles with gender and/or sexuality. Many of my clients arrive with previous diagnoses of ADHD, autism, anxiety and/or depression. They often have a creative side that has been suppressed in order to focus more on developing a professional self. Many of my clients report feeling like they have to wear a mask in the workplace and in social situations. It is not uncommon for them to feel lost, numb or lacking direction in their life. As a therapist, my strengths are in my ability to follow creative lines and tie together seemingly complex thought and behavior systems to give you deeper awareness of the issues that present for you. My education and experience in community health and mental healthcare has prepared me as a therapist to provide therapeutic care that goes beyond asking deep questions. My approach to therapy is non-judgmental and is driven by the strengths of my clients. If this resonates with you, I invite you to reach out. Together we can find a path.

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

Our first session is an opportunity for us to get to know one another. This will be a great time for you to ask me any questions you might have about my therapy background and my approach to therapy. We will then start to complete the intake interview. The intake interview can be between one to two sessions. The intake interview will be a series of questions I will ask to help give me an idea of who you are, where you are at in life and where to start our work together.

What treatment methods and tools do you utilize?

My approach to therapy is trauma-informed, feminist and gestalt in nature. As a social worker and therapist, my perspective is heavily focused in parts theory and the ecology of the self. I tailor my training in cognitive behavioral therapy and insight-based therapy to best meet the needs of my clients. If you have questions about my methods and tools please reach out and I can answer any questions you might have.

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

I value humor and cultivating joy in the therapeutic process. Life is too short to focus only on that which is painful. Sometimes we all need breaks. As a therapist, I am skilled in sitting with and guiding others through situations of emotional complexity and uncertainty. I shine in my capacity to ask open-ended questions that get to the root of painful emotions or memories in steps. I will work with you to dismantle feelings of overwhelm and discomfort into palatable bites. My goal as a therapist is to facilitate and hold space with you that feels comfortable enough to be brave.

About Blake Summer

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Virtual