Akiva Garellek
Akiva Garellek focuses on meeting his clients where they are. Working together with his clients and meeting their needs is of the utmost importance. He uses evidence-based models, such as CBT and DBT, in his practice. Even more importantly, he offers a great deal of empathy and will take on your problems and attack them as if they are his own. Ever since I was young, I knew I wanted to get into a career path that would make a difference in people’s lives. This interest led me to study psychology and mental health, ultimately leading me to a rewarding career in helping people. As a licensed Mental Health Counselor in the greater New York & South Florida area, I am committed to the well-being of all my clients and go above and beyond to cater to their needs. I truly care for all of my clients and work diligently to help find them the answers they seek. Since 2016, I have worked with a variety of clients dealing with circumstances that are unique to their lives, which led me down the path of specializing in working with children utilizing play therapy.
First session
In our first session together, I typically like to go over a history and have the opportunity to begin building rapport, getting to know one another and truly seeing if the relationship is right for both parties. I always say , "Connecting a client and a therapist together is like matchmaking, it has to work and click on both sides for it to work". From there we will get in to the reasons and the how I can be helpful.
Strengths
“We are never more fully alive, more completely ourselves or more deeply engrossed in anything than when we are playing”. -Charles Schaefer. Play is vital for children to express themselves and learn about their surroundings and general environment. In addition to exploration, it is essential for their development. Allowing the space for them to play freely generates the possibility of understanding their world and their motivation. Instead of the traditional format of communication, we often learn more about a child's thoughts, feelings, motivations, and struggles by watching them play. To be able to give a child power, motivation, and confidence will set the foundation for a successful life. Oftentimes when dealing with a traumatic situation and learning to deal and cope with it effectively, allows a child (or anyone for that matter) to become the best versions of themselves and learn to move forward. Play Therapy sessions with a Licensed clinician that cares and helps create a safe place. I guide my clients and their parents every step of the way and implement various methods to help them develop new attitudes toward all of life’s most complex matters. The work I do benefits children coming from abusive homes and dealing with some of those challenges.
Ideal clients
My passion is working with children and their families is returning to a place of solace, comfort, care and connectivity. I've found that by helping to support the family system will set the family and children up for life.
Location
Virtual sessions
In-person sessions4651 Sheridan St, Hollywood, FL 33021, Suite 220B