Vanessa Souza (she/her)

LCSW
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Hi there, I'm Vanessa. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) specializing in working with chronic illness and life transitions.

Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California

Services
  • Individual

About My Clients

I have nearly 15 years of experience working with older adults, family caregivers (especially caregivers under 50), and professional caregivers. I particularly enjoy working with those experiencing chronic illness or progressive disability, struggles with the aging process, and other life transitions. If you're struggling with a new or progressing diagnosis, anticipatory grief, caregiving, or any life change, there is help!

My Background and Approach

I was a social worker for quite a while before ever considering becoming a therapist, working in residential and daycare and health education. I have been working with older adults since 2006, particularly those with cognitive impairment. I use an eclectic approach to help you identify your goal, whether that is to accept and cope with a new diagnosis or caregiving role, to develop a self-care plan, or to engage in life review and "bucket list' goal setting. We might use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, narrative, or even reminiscence to help you identify your problem and craft a solution together.

My Personal Beliefs and Interests

As someone who has spent most of my life with older adults, I believe that aging in an ageist and ableist society can be one of the hardest things we ever do. I believe strongly that everyone, including people with disabilities, deserves to have a say in their every day life, and deserves to feel supported and heard. I am also a fat-positive, body-neutral person and believe that all bodies are good bodies.

Techniques I Use

Specialties
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Eclectic Therapy Motivational Interviewing
Other Techniques
  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
  • Eclectic Therapy
  • Humanistic Therapy
  • Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)
  • Motivational Interviewing
  • Narrative Therapy
  • Solution Focused Brief Therapy

Issues I Treat

Specialties
Aging Concerns Alzheimer's Chronic Pain or Illness
Other Issues
  • Aging Concerns
  • Alzheimer's
  • Anxiety
  • Burnout
  • Career Counseling
  • Chronic Pain or Illness
  • Depression
  • Grief or Loss
  • Physical Disability
  • Relationship Issues
  • Self-Esteem
  • Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
  • Women's Issues
Insurance Plans Accepted
  • Aetna
  • Cigna
  • Kaiser
  • Oscar
  • Anthem
  • MHN
  • Optum
  • Oxford Health Plan
  • United Healthcare
  • Blue Shield of California
  • UnitedHealthcare
I offer online counseling in the following states:

At A Glance

  • Experience: 4 years of practice
  • Languages: English
  • Rate: $50 - 150/session

Reach out to Vanessa