THERAPY APPROACH
Doing What Works
Through my experience in the mental health field, I have found out that evidenced based treatment approaches work for my clients I frequently incorporate art and activities in the session.
Cognitive Behavior Therapy
Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) is an evidenced based treatment to treat depression, anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. It works successfully for children and adults. This treatment model is generally short-termed and focused on problem-solving in the present. The basic idea behind CBT is that thoughts influence our feelings and actions; if we can manage and control our thoughts then we can manage the outcome. CBT aims to identify harmful, unhelpful thoughts or belief and check it against reality. Challenging unhelpful thoughts or ideas and replacing them with positive, practical thoughts is one of the main components of CBT. This motivates people to change the perspective and take action to reach their goal. I am trained in CBT.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is based on cognitive behavior therapy. It is an evidenced based treatment, which focuses on mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion management and interpersonal effectiveness. DBT has proven successful with clients experiencing depression, PTSD, and eating disorders. DBT works on balancing opposite perspectives by using mindfulness and by challenging unhelpful beliefs. It helps gain control of the overwhelming emotions through concrete skills which can be used in daily life. DBT has proven helpful in solving relationship issues.
I am trained and certified in DBT.
Mindfulness
Mindfulness is the foundation of my practice. Mindfulness is an effective tool to take control of your mind, rather than your mind controlling you. Engaging in mindfulness exercises teaches us to focus on the present, immerse in it completely so you can take action necessary for that moment. We cannot control the past or the future. All we have is present. However cliche this sounds, it is true. Mindfulness helps in alleviating anxiety, depression, PTSD, fear and improves relationships.
The research has shown that mindfulness practices for children have shown significant improvement in their mental and behavioral health. Current neurological research backs mindfulness as an effective tool aiding neuroplasticity.
Cultural sensitivity
America is a salad bowl with various cultures coming together in a colorful combination. Working with clients from diverse cultural backgrounds has taught me that no matter where we come from, we all have basic needs for connection and belonging. We need a shoulder to cry on, a hand to hold and a friend to share a laugh with. We all cherish our loved ones and would do anything for them. And yes, we all need help sometimes when life throws a curveball.
I care about my clients passionately and try my best to provide non-judgmental, respectful service. It is your life and your story. You are the expert. I would like to be your guide by providing useful and practical tools so you can live the life you love.
