Hi there! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Valparaiso, Indiana. I earned my Masters Degree in Social Work from Indiana University-Purdue University (IUPUI) and Social Work/Business undergraduate degrees from Valparaiso University. I have been practicing for over nine years. Before that time, I was a self-employed business owner in the field of software sales and consulting. I work in community mental health and addictions, serving a population struggling with addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders. I mainly work with adults and adolescents. My focus is on creating a safe space to collaborate in the therapeutic experience; helping you to feel better faster!
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
In our first session, we will start with introductions, then address specific challenges you are facing. This will help us collaborate on a treatment plan to work through in follow-up sessions. Introduce me to your joys, concerns, energy, pain, 'stuckness'. We will collaborate on a plan to help you feel better faster.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
I embrace the therapeutic process and want to be your ally in helping you improve your well-being. Mostly, I like to have fun and stay positive. We approach our sessions with a mix of identifying your joys and concerns. I have empathy for my clients and I can engage on many levels to meet you where you are at. This is a dynamic process as life can feel "stuck", but we can work together to improve your progress towards better mental well-being. Therapy is an opportunity to embrace changes, learn coping skills, and empower you to move forward on your chosen path to feel better faster!
About Barbara Popa
Barbara Popa offers therapy covered by Managed Health Services (Managed Medicaid), Medicaid - Managed Health Services and UnitedHealthcare/Optum - Medicaid in Indiana.
Serves ages
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VirtualMy treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
CBT is my 'go-to' therapy modality as an evidence-based practice, accepted by most insurance providers, and very effective for better outcomes. First, we discuss your joys and concerns to set achievable goals in treatment. Then, we collaborate on creating a custom treatment plan that is realistic for you! We will work together to help you feel better faster.
Daialectical Behavior (DBT)
I use DBT with younger clients as adjunct to CBT as an evidence-based practice, accepted by most insurance providers. Learning coping strategies to balance thoughts and emotions is an effective, evidence-based practice for positive outcomes.
Motivational Interviewing
I use MI as evidence-based practice modality with all clients to promote client engagement and elicit change talk. MI challenges clients to recognize negative behavior patterns creating suffering in their lives. MI helps clients learn skills to manage negative behaviors and to reflect on ways to promote positive change in daily functioning.