I provide clients with a nonjudgmental, empathetic, and safe space to help them enhance their quality of life and overall well-being. My approach is culturally informed, as I acknowledge the social context and experiences that shape individuals' daily lives. I enjoy working with a diverse range of clients, supporting them as they tackle various challenges, and empowering them to discover effective coping skills for managing difficulties. I find fulfillment in helping clients overcome relationship issues, trauma, anxiety, depression, and other concerns. I truly believe that therapy, and the therapeutic relationship I build with clients, creates a space for healing, self-awareness, and personal growth. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and my Master’s in Counseling Psychology from Towson University. I specialize in working with adults, utilizing Person-Centered, Solution-Focused, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness techniques. I’m passionate about helping clients feel a sense of belonging while exploring different facets of their identity. I also have a strong understanding of Ethiopian and immigrant experiences, and I am a dedicated ally of the LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities. I work with many clients from these communities, addressing cultural and individual trauma. Additionally, I am bilingual in Amharic and able to support clients whose primary or only language is Amharic.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
During our first session, clients can expect to get acquainted with me and begin building a foundation for the therapeutic relationship. This initial session is often focused on understanding the client's background, concerns, and goals for therapy. I will likely ask questions to gather information about the client’s history, including any current challenges, emotional experiences, relationships, and other relevant aspects of their life. This session also allows clients to share what has led them to seek therapy and any specific issues they want to address.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
I believe some of my greatest strengths as a therapist include empathy, being able to provide nonjudgmental environment where clients feel understood, self-awareness, and emotional intelligence. I am able to establish and maintain professional boundaries, as this fosters trust and ensures a supportive yet ethically sound therapeutic relationship. I am also culturally competent and sensitive to diverse backgrounds and experiences, which is valuable in connecting with clients from all walks of life.
About Mahi Alemnew
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VirtualMy treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with clients to help them identify, challenge, and change negative or unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors. CBT is a structured, goal-oriented therapy focused on the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and I use it to address specific problems. I start with an assessment to understand the client’s concerns, patterns of thought, and behaviors. This might include identifying specific problems, such as anxiety or depression, and defining goals the client wants to achieve. I support the client with psychoeducation, identifying thought patterns and beliefs, challenge and reframe thoughts, and help client build new patterns and skills to manage and improve symptoms.
Person-centered (Rogerian)
I use this humanistic approach that emphasizes a therapist’s role in providing a supportive, non-judgmental environment in which clients feel safe to explore their feelings and thoughts. This therapy is based on the belief that individuals have an innate capacity for self-growth and self-healing. I focus on creating a relationship of empathy, unconditional positive regard, and genuineness, allowing clients to access their own inner resources and achieve personal growth. By fostering a warm and accepting atmosphere, person-centered therapy encourages clients to find their own solutions, promoting self-acceptance and self-awareness.
Solution Focused Brief Treatment
Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT) is a goal-oriented, brief therapeutic approach that emphasizes clients' strengths and resources rather than dwelling on problems. I use this approach to help clients envision their desired future and identify small, actionable steps toward achieving it. I work collaboratively with clients, asking questions that draw out past successes, moments of resilience, and potential solutions. By focusing on what is already working or what has worked before, clients are empowered to build on their existing capabilities, fostering a sense of hope and confidence in their ability to make positive changes.