EMILY QUANSAH LMSW

Depression can be isolating and an endless cycle of hopelessness. Finding a safe place to express your thoughts and feelings is a major first step. I also want to ensure that you are given important skills and strategies to manage your depressive symptoms.

Grief looks different for every body so it can be difficult to know the "right way" to navigate it. Often times we are taught to hide our grief. In my previous experience working with hospice, taking the time to process in a therapeutic environment can be a much needed relief.

Facing anxiety can feel overwhelming. Learning to manage anxiety can be empowering. I've witnessed many individuals gain mindfulness and coping skills to help them with their own symptoms. I also have seen the importance of understanding how negative thinking and poor self-esteem play into the cycle of anxiety. Exploring core beliefs, triggers, and the right coping skills can make a significant difference.

CBT is one of the most popular forms of therapy for a good reason -- it works! It's a helpful tool not only in changing undesired behavior, but understanding where that behavior is rooted. I love using it because it allows for deeper exploration of a problem while also seeking out a new way of doing things.

I have used motivational interviewing all throughout my career. What I appreciate most is that it gives control back to you, the client. The therapist is not simply giving advice but explores what you think will be most helpful. I integrate it in all of my sessions to ensure that we are staying on a path that will be sustainable for you.

In my experience, using SFBT has come in handy when dealing with more isolated problems or life transitions. Sometimes it is most helpful to identify what the problem is and develop a strategy directly. Using the tools from SFBT has also been helpful in discovering problem-solving coping skills.

SFBT can be a great tool for addressing problems directly. While I still value the exploration of core beliefs and root issues, some problems are more straight-forward. In this case, I believe focusing sessions on strategies to help develop problem-solving skills can be especially helpful.