Last edited 10/15/2023
Danetra Smith-Wheeler
Accepting New Clients
Get To Know Me
What would be important for someone to know about working with you?
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.
What do you think is the biggest barrier today for people seeking care?
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,
What does a first session with you look like?
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.
Specialties
Specializes in
DepressionChild mental healthMood disordersOppositional & defiant behaviorStress
General Expertise
Work StressSelf-EsteemADHDAdolescent mental healthAnger managementCollege & graduate student issuesDivorce & separationFamily issuesLife coachingParenting issuesPost-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)Psychotic DisordersSelf HarmStep-family/Blended Family IssuesSuicidal ideationWomen's issuesBehavioral IssuesCoping SkillsCouplesFamilies
Treatment Approaches
Mindfulness PracticesNarrative TherapyCognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)Emotionally Focused TherapyMindfulness-Based Cognitive TherapySolution-Focused Brief TherapyCoaching
Clientele
Types of Therapy
Family TherapyIndividual TherapyCouples Counseling
Serves Ages
ParentsYoung Adults (18-24)Adults (25-65)Children (5-12)
Languages
English
Professional Background
LicensureCalifornia, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, 48440
Training/CertificationsNarrative Therapy, Trauma in the Black Community-What Happened, Conscious Education-Building Awareness, Positive Behavior Interventions and Support Trainer of Trainees, Human Trafficking Awareness, Mindfulness training, Suicide Assessment and Treatment
Education
Master of Science Counseling Psychology -California Baptist University
Work HistoryI 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s not uncommon to have questions before starting therapy.
Danetra Smith-Wheeler, LMFT, has answered a few of the questions they receive most often from new clients.
Is Danetra Smith-Wheeler accepting new clients?
Yes, Danetra Smith-Wheeler is accepting new clients.
Does Danetra Smith-Wheeler accept insurance?
No, Danetra Smith-Wheeler does not accept insurance.
What types of therapy does Danetra Smith-Wheeler offer?
Danetra Smith-Wheeler offers therapy for couples, families and individuals.
Does Danetra Smith-Wheeler offer in-person appointments?
No, but people in California can book Danetra Smith-Wheeler for virtual appointments (teletherapy).
Does Danetra Smith-Wheeler offer online therapy?
Yes, Danetra Smith-Wheeler offers online therapy to people in California.
How quickly can I see Danetra Smith-Wheeler?
Danetra Smith-Wheeler typically can speak with new clients within 48 hours. You can see their current general office hours and request an appointment on their profile page.
What languages does Danetra Smith-Wheeler speak?
Danetra Smith-Wheeler conducts therapy sessions in English.
Can I book an appointment with Danetra Smith-Wheeler online?
Yes, you can easily book an appointment with Danetra Smith-Wheeler online using ChoosingTherapy.com’s directory.
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