Danetra Smith-Wheeler LMFT

I believe everybody goes through things in life and sometimes people need some assistance with navigating the rough patches in their lives. The therapist is like a navigation system e.g.Google Maps guiding the client to their ultimate therapeutic goal. When driving to a destination using a navigation system, there may be traffic, detours, etc., in which the navigation system gives instructions on how to deal with the obstacles on the road. The therapeutic journey is isomorphic to driving somewhere using a navigation system. The therapeutic journey will have it’s ups, downs, and rough patches but if the client stay the course he/she will reach his/her final destination (achieve his/her treatment goals) with the guidance of his/her therapist.

The biggest barriers to people seeking care is the negative stigma associated with mental health. Often times people don’t want to be labeled as being mentally ill or “crazy” but seeking mental health support is an avenue for a person to have personal growth. “In the beginner’s mind there are many possibilities, but in the expert’s there are few” ― Shunryu Suzuki, Zen Mind,

During the first session I would answer any questions and address any concerns my client may have about therapy. The first session will also include me building rapport with my client by gathering information about my client’s presenting problems, history, personal interest, and establishIng individualized treatment goals.

• California, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, 48440

I have over 18 years of experiences working in the mental health field in the capacity of a mental health therapist, program manager, case manager, clinical supervisor, and as a mental health administrator for a school district. I have worked with children, adolescents, couples and families of diverse cultures in schools, homes, group homes, and private practice. I have provided therapy to clients in order to address a variety of mental health issues which included, but was not limited to, depression, anxiety, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, bipolar disorder, trauma, parenting issues, communication issues, anger management, and impulse control. When working with my clients I explore not just what’s wrong with my clients, but I also look at their stories. I explore how I can help be the change agent in assisting my clients with rewriting their stories so they can be successful at home, at school, at work, and in the community.