Amy GrovenLMFT

Three things: 1) Something my very first supervisor said to me (way back when I was a graduate student) still sticks with me today, and that is to give my client’s a different experience. We need to venture into that new territory where change lives. That means we have to entertain the idea of new ways of being, and create environments where we experience the life we want. 2) You cannot pour from an empty cup. If you are not taking care of yourself first, you will have nothing to give anyone else. 3) Trauma is a mental injury that you can rehabilitate from.

I work with clients to overcome their past, calm their bodies, and bring peace to their own lives. My practice focuses on bolstering strengths so you can face your past and find new meaning in life. I utilize a variety of techniques, such as grounding and meditation, somatic interventions, EMDR, as well as talk therapy techniques. I trust that you know what is best for you, and collaborate with you to make goals. Together, will work to find ways to get your needs met in healthy ways. I have experience helping people build their self-esteem and self-worth, while decreasing feelings of hopelessness, loneliness, and worthlessness. I have extensive history working with sexual abuse victims and perpetrators, trauma, domestic violence victims and perpetrators, anxiety and depression. Healing is challenging work, but I will be right beside you as you take the steps necessary to build the life you want to live.

I show up for my clients as my authentic self. It is the only way to have an authentic relationship with my clients. For many who suffer with trauma related issues, being authentic can be something they desperately want, but at the same time their trauma tells them it is not safe. This leaves people feeling shame, and unworthy of love and belonging. Creating a space where it is safe to explore this part of themselves is often beneficial in dropping shame, and embracing life. This aspect of the therapeutic relationship is incredibly healing, and I am often humbled and honored to be apart of that process.

• California, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, 100183

I love the blend of working in a community agency, and having my own private practice. Prior to the agency I currently work for, I worked with clients who were mandated by the court to come to therapy. Many of those clients broke the law in violent and/or sexual manner. I eventually became a director at that agency and over saw the treatment of those on probation and parole. As you can imagine, working with that population means treating various mental health and behavioral management issues. I stayed there for about 7 years, until I moved to be closer to my family. In my current agency work, I work with victims of domestic violence and sexual assault and supervise other therapists who are gaining their hours towards licensure. All the while I have maintained my own private practice helping clients who have experienced trauma in a multitude of ways, as well as other mental health issues.