Emily M CheatumLicensed Psychologist

My personality outside the therapy session matches my personality in the session. I have always been an empathic, warm and non-judgemental person; this is natural and genuine for me which I believe clients can see and feel. I also have a sense of humor that can help build rapport and can make certain moments in session more relaxed and comfortable.

During the first session I take time to answer my client's questions about any paperwork they signed, the therapy process or myself and my therapeutic style. I also want to understand what triggered a client to initiate therapy, as well as their short and long term therapy goals. It is important I get a full picture of my client's struggles and challenges, but also their strengths, as this will be a key component in making progress in therapy. I also obtain a relevant history of each client in order to understand the contributing factors to how a person is currently coping, feeling and acting. My conceptualization and treatment plan begins by the end of the first session, but evolves as therapy progresses.

I think people are often hesitant to start therapy because they fear they will be judged by the therapist or that going to therapy is a sign of weakness. I would like people to know that a therapist's role is to help understand their clients, not judge them. People should know that therapists who have been in practice for a number of years have probably seen and heard everything and you are not alone with what you are struggling with. Also, knowing you need additional support and seeking out that help is a sign of strength and courage, never weakness

• California, Licensed Psychologist, PSY22328

Throughout my years in practice, I have gained experience working with various populations in several different settings. I started my career working in a psychiatric hospital, where my primary specialty was in crisis intervention and assessing whether a patient met criteria for an involuntary hold (5150). I have had about 12 years of experience working in community mental health settings with children, teens, families and adults. The years spent working in community mental health afforded me the opportunity to gain significant experience in treating numerous anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, conduct disorders and personality disorders. Working in community mental health also sparked the desire to develop specialties in trauma, family therapy and eating disorders. I have been in private practice for 5 years and continue to learn and grow from each client I see, which inspires me to continue my training and expertise so that I may be the most effective psychologist for each of my clients.