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Therapists answer…

What is therapy like? What does a typical session with you look like?

David ShapiroD

David Shapiro

Psychologist

What does a typical session with you tend to look like?

So what does a typical session with me look like. First of all, I would tell you that there is no cookie cutter, and I really mean to adjust what I'm doing with each person is based upon their unique needs, preferences and requirements for their situation. And so, you know that having been said, I will tell you that in a general sense what I like to do is I like to start off by just checking in with a person, and I find out how things are going. Oftentimes they'll share with me a follow up from the past session, things that they've thought about, or maybe they had had some sort of follow up that they were going to do either someone in their life or some, some change that we're going to try to apply or some skill that they're going to be working on and they'll share with me how that went. And then usually together we'll kind of figure out what it is that they're needing in whatever phase they're in, and then we'll set about trying to do something which will move them forward for that area. Sometimes that may involve teaching them a skill, sometimes that may involve more deeply processing the reactions to some event or some things that they're struggling with on the inside. Sometimes they may even, it may even involve leading them through some kind of an internal process. And so, those kinds of internal processes could be considered like a guided meditation or a clinical hypnosis session. Trauma reprocessing if you really begin can vary greatly, based upon the needs of each person and where they are and so forth. Depending upon also who I'm working with. This could also vary because if I'm working with a couple or with a parent and a teenager. Some of that can involve supporting them and communicating with each other. And then after that, kind of, whatever that corrective intervention, I guess we would say it is. Then there's the thinking about what the next step in the person's development is, and what would help them in that process. And so this is where we start now thinking about what sorts of follow up the person might do between our next session, sometimes this involves making recommendations to them about skills that they could practice or books they might find helpful even, you know recordings or other resources that they might access to support whatever the growth is that they're needing or wanting and and then usually that kind of involves some kind of a kind of a follow up plan. You know, some people call that homework. I don't really think about it that way because it's really, you know, just kind of helping them identify something that they could do, of course, if they didn't, then we could easily follow up on that next session. It isn't school where we're where, you know, there is the authority who's going to be critical if they don't do something, it's really for them to decide whether they would find that helpful, but generally that's the structure so there's, there's kind of a checking in figuring out where a person's at, Then there's doing something that's going to move them forward in some way. And then there's figuring out how that can be supported and followed up on before our next session. And that's kind of, you know, very, very broad strokes, you know, probably typical structure of most therapies, but the details can vary greatly, and the good thing is is that, you know, because of my years of experience and the various development opportunities that I've had. I'm able to really offer a whole host of different types of approaches and strategies, and be able to morph those you know to each individual in a very unique way. And that's just something that comes with experience, expertise, so I would really value the chance to talk to you about what it is that you're particularly looking for and then maybe together we can talk about what sorts of sessions would be of value to you, and, and one way that we could do that is through a free online consultation which I offer and it would be it would be great if we could just take a few moments and think through those things to see if I might be the one to be of assistance to you so I hope that gives you a little bit of a kind of general idea about what I do within therapy, and hopefully we could think about the particulars about how that could apply to you. I hope to talk to you soon. Take care.
Amanda RussoA

Amanda Russo

Licensed Professional Counselor
Online Therapy
What do therapy sessions with you look like?
Initial Visit (Telehealth) - 60 minutes An initial visit involves a medical history review, an assessment of your specific symptoms and concerns, and possible diagnostic tests to evaluate a patient's health, identify issues, and develop and discuss treatment options. Follow-up Visit (Telehealth) - 60 minutes A follow-up visit involves checking the progress of the patient's treatment plan, assessing any new symptoms or concerns, and adjusting the treatment plan as needed to ensure optimal health outcomes.
Hi there! My name is Amanda Russo and I’m the clinical director of Balanced Life Solutions. I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC). I’ve lived in the Dallas/Fort Worth area my whole life. I went to The University of Texas in Dallas and obtained a Bachelor’s in Child Learning and Development and a Bachelor’s in Psychology. During undergrad, I entered an internship working with autistic children, which spurred my love for working with the neurodivergent community. I then went on to study at The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center where I received a Master’s in Rehabilitation Counseling. It was during my time at UTSW that I discovered my passion for neuropsychological and educational assessment where I worked for both the UTSW Psychological Services Department and the Parkland Trauma Unit. After school, I went on to work in several private practices, local community mental health clinics and public schools. In addition to being a counselor, I’m also a certified teacher in elementary education, special education, and school counseling. I’m extremely passionate about advocating for the appropriate educational services for children with special needs. After working for the schools, I did neuroscience research and treatment for divergent social cognition with the University of Texas at Dallas’ Brain Performance Institute. There, I utilized technology to provide treatment in an online interface, focusing on improving childrens’ ability to understand other peoples’ thoughts and implicit social information. Additionally, I gave presentations around the DFW metroplex focusing on how educators and parents could help foster social cognition. I have expertise in neurodivergent diagnoses including autism, ADHD, and learning differences including gifted learners. Additionally, I have a strong passion for working with neurodivergent women and AFAB individuals as they are chronically under- and misdiagnosed due to their presentation of symptoms. When I’m not counseling, I love spending time with my three children. I also enjoy singing, traveling, and reading books, especially on the topics of neuroscience and psychology.
Afsanah YasmineA

Afsanah Yasmine

Clinical Psychologist
Online Therapy
What does a typical session with you tend to look like?
This question is a little tricky as none of my two sessions are alike. The reason being is that every client that comes to me has unique strengths and areas they'd like to grow in. For example- I have some clients who love art while others love athletics. Both of whom process emotions and cognitions differently. For each I tailor my sessions to incorporate Compassion-Focused Therapy and Liberation Psychology to whatever the client and I have agreed to be their treatment plan- based on what works for them, and avoiding wasting time on what does not. I absolutely encourage my clients to consistently give feedback and what they like or don't, as well as what is working or isn't. In fact, it's my favorite part and usually where discover a lot of in-depth information.
Hello Traveler! Embark on the journey you deserve! Seeking expert care for self-discovery and healing? Look no further than Compassionate Mental Health & Liberation – a sanctuary defined by our very name! Our inclusive approach welcomes individuals from all backgrounds, orientations, and beliefs (or lack thereof). Through Compassion Focused Therapy and Liberation Psychology, we provide a distinctive approach that encourages self-love and self-acceptance. Our safe and nurturing environment allows you to explore yourself without judgment. Find Your Path, Unlock Your Potential, and Flourish with Compassion! Offering specialized clinical psychology services for various mental health conditions, with expertise in neurodivergence, LGBTQIA+ research, and Compassion-Focused Therapy. Empowering marginalized voices through Liberation Psychology. Providing safe, judgment-free and affirming space for clients.
Tammy LeeT

Tammy Lee

Therapist - MA, LPC, LPA
Online & In-Person
What does a typical session with you tend to look like?
People have said it's raw, honest, authentic, and with candid examples of human-ness. I say it's rooted in a connection of our being completely human together, and yet still professional, principled, and informed.
I wholeheartedly believe in the process of authentic connection. With a multicultural background, I recognizes each person is uniquely multifaceted. My approach to therapy is to meet you wherever you’re at in life, get curious about you, and then serve as YOUR team to journey alongside you. The goal is to provide a safe empathetic space where you are respected and honored, so that internal self-explorations can begin, and to foster creative evolutions towards intentionality, self-discovery, self-empowerment, and healing. The focus is your growth & thriving towards being the best version(s) of yourself that you like to be. With 5 years’ experience in community mental health, psychiatric facility, and prison systems altogether, I have supported youths & adults with assessments, skills training, and therapy for individual, family, and group. I utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused Therapy, EMDR, & person-centered insights to address a wide range of concerns. People deserve to be believed in, with their worth and potential supported, so that each one of us can live fulfilled, so I work towards breaking the stigma of mental health one conversation at a time. I also enjoy globetrotting, reading, tea, video games, and loves hedgehogs.
LaQuindra CarrollL

LaQuindra Carroll

Licensed Clinical Social Worker Supervisor
Online & In-Person
What does a typical session with you tend to look like?
Experience a warm and welcoming atmosphere during sessions with LaQuindra. Here, you'll find the comfort of confiding in a trusted friend. Whether you're grappling with trauma, depression, relationship challenges, or anxiety, she's your steadfast companion. Together, you'll navigate through challenges, emerging stronger and enlightened. LaQuindra is dedicated to supporting you throughout your ongoing journey.
I am LaQuindra, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Supervisor at Eternal Bliss Holistic Therapy. I specialize in a unique blend of traditional therapy and holistic healing, inspired by my personal journey of spiritual growth. This transformative journey encouraged me to acquire an extensive range of certifications, including Life Coaching, Reiki Mastery, Crystal Healing, Hypnosis, and Chakra Balancing. I am here to guide you on your path of self-improvement, be it mental, subconscious, or spiritual, initiating a profound process of healing, empowerment, and enlightenment. Eternal Bliss Holistic Therapy strives to offer you a holistic approach to healing, aiming to heal you from the inside out. With me, you're not just another client; you're a valued individual who deserves to thrive. I am here to equip you with the skills necessary to move forward, fostering the strength within you to overcome any barriers standing in your way. I pride myself on creating a relaxing, friendly environment during my sessions, ensuring you'll feel as comfortable as you would while talking to a trusted friend. Whether you're grappling with trauma, battling depression, navigating relationships, or conquering anxiety, I am here to weather the storm with you. Together, you'll navigate through your struggles and reach the other end, stronger and more enlightened. I am committed to supporting you throughout your ongoing journey. My dedication to helping others was fostered during my academic pursuits. I earned my Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Texas Woman's University before advancing to achieve a Master's degree in Social Work from The University of Texas at Arlington. My education, combined with my personal experiences and passion for holistic healing, makes me a compassionate and understanding companion on your path to wellbeing.
Lauren TinagliaL

Lauren Tinaglia

Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Online Therapy
What does a typical session with you tend to look like?
Sessions are 50 minutes long and are conducted via a HIPAA-compliant platform called Doxy.me. The first few sessions are usually spent building rapport and laying the foundation for our work by discussing your history and what brings you to therapy. From there, it varies depending on what you're wanting to get out of the therapy, so that can mean discussing family or other significant relationships, things that have come up recently that you want help unpack and work through, sources of stress, goals for the future, etc.
I am a New York City-based licensed clinical social worker who believes that it’s powerful and healing to have a space to be heard and supported while addressing challenges and achieving goals. I work with adults of all ages and walks of life who want to live a happier and more satisfying and productive life. Many of my clients are navigating life transitions, trying to understand their career and relationship goals, learning how best to respond to daily stress, anxiety, and challenges, and striving to improve their relationships, mental health, emotions, and self-esteem. Together, we will clarify your goals and develop insight, skills, and self-compassion. I provide my clients with the tools and skills to better understand themselves and feel resilient, grounded, and empowered to make changes. My approach is empathic and exploratory and I draw from a combination of skills- and insight-oriented modalities including CBT, DBT, EMDR, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, and psychodynamic psychotherapy. I received both my undergraduate degree and Master of Social Work from the University of Michigan and spent several years working in the Department of Psychiatry at New York Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell, where I treated individuals struggling with a range of mental health issues. Prior to that, I worked with individuals with chronic and progressive neurological illnesses at NYU Langone Medical Center. You are worthy of having a safe space to be heard, nourished, and supported. I know it can be intimidating and overwhelming to be vulnerable with a stranger, but I have every confidence that this journey will be beneficial and rewarding. I welcome the opportunity to speak with you and discuss how I can come alongside you as a support and a guide.