I am thrilled to have this opportunity to connect with you and share my passion for psychotherapy (aka, therapy by way of talking and interaction.) As a dedicated Licensed Mental Health Counselor, my goal is to create a safe and empathetic space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Today, I want to introduce myself and delve into some of the benefits that psychotherapy can offer. I also want provide some insight to my approach and perspectives on growth and healing.
First, a little about me- the human. Through my own journey as a therapy client during adolescence, I realized I wanted to help others the way I was being helped. After being diagnosed with a rare, progressive illness, my therapist saw and heard me in a way that others couldn't. The love and support of family and friends was comforting, but the emotional pain was something I needed professional eyes and ears on. My first therapist deserves credit for inspiring me to be where I am now. (If you're reading this, hi! And thank you!)
Fast forward to early 2020, and I'm a pre-licensed therapist working my *dream job*, working with teens and adults, running Dialectal Behavior Therapy (DBT) groups, providing assessments, and working with a multidisciplinary team (psychiatrists, social workers, psychologists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, and registered nurses). And then a pandemic flipped the world on its head.
I opened my private practice, Hard Things Counseling, as a part-time adventure in February of 2022 after receiving full licensure (and becoming VERY familiar with the world of teletherapy.) A few months later, I knew individual therapy was my passion, and I made the move to taking it on full-time. I briefly took another job, until I realized I wanted to be in full control of my time and energy by working for myself. Hard Things Counseling went full-bore in May 2023.
Random things about me:
1) I don't currently have any pets, but it is my goal to have a Great Dane some day. I love talking with my clients about their pets, and even having them join our teletherapy sessions.
2) I do not have an artistic bone in my body. I often try to draw little diagrams/sketches for my client's in session, and although they usually look like a 7-year-old drew it, I like to model vulnerability.
3) I love to laugh. Humor is such a strong therapeutic tool and I will always laugh with clients when I can (and it is appropriate, of course!)
Ok, now me- the therapist.
I am a firm believer in the transformative power of the therapeutic alliance – that unique and profound connection between therapist and client. This relationship forms the cornerstone of effective therapy, providing a secure environment where you can openly express yourself without judgment. This alliance takes time to build, and it is my commitment to work at my client's speed. We will collaboratively navigate the complexities of your inner world, working together to untangle knots, unearth insights, and foster personal growth.
There is a concept therapist learn in their schooling called the mechanism of change, defined as the "theory-driven reason change [for the client] occurs in therapy." You would think that in therapy, we get better by doing homework, practicing coping skills, and changing your thinking patterns. These interventions can be helpful, but it is my belief that the true mechanism of change is the therapeutic relationship that we co--create with clients. As we build trust and rapport, you'll find the courage to confront past traumas, understand self-defeating patterns, and develop coping strategies. The mere act of being heard and understood can be profoundly cathartic, allowing for emotional release and a fresh perspective on life's challenges.
Psychotherapy is a transformative process that holds the potential to bring about lasting positive change. The therapeutic alliance, grounded in trust and empathy, serves as the catalyst for healing and growth. It's my honor and privilege to walk alongside you in this journey of self-discovery, offering support, guidance, and insights every step of the way. I invite you to explore the upcoming posts where we'll delve deeper into various aspects of psychotherapy and its remarkable impact on our lives.
Thank you for joining me on this path towards healing and transformation. Remember, taking the first step is often the bravest, and I'm here to support my client's wholeheartedly.
-Julia
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