Ann Alves LCSW

After your first session with me, you can expect a sense of relief and validation. We'll begin by discussing your concerns, your goals, and exploring different areas of your life, pertinent history and the dynamics of your relationships. I'll create a safe space for you to openly express yourself, and together, we'll lay the foundation for our journey forward. My ultimate goal is to empower you to cultivate a deeper understanding of yourself and equip you with the tools needed to navigate the ebbs & flows of life.

My approach to therapy is both eclectic and psychodynamic, recognizing that everyone has unique needs and is influenced by their past experiences. I'm trauma-informed, creating a safe space to address past wounds and promote healing. Together, we'll work to identify the root cause of the issues at hand and leverage your strengths and resiliency to identify solutions that move you forward. Methods like CBT to reshape negative thought patterns and Emotion-Focused Therapy to explore & process feelings are often combined with mindfulness practices and creative expression techniques. We may use journaling for reflection or engage in role-playing to explore different perspectives. Vocal sounds and Tapping, known as Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), are tools used to release emotional blocks.

• New Jersey, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, 44SC05743200