Laurie Karzen LCSW

Our first session is about getting to know each other, an overview of what brings you to therapy, and some goals you want to meet. Those goals are the roadmap for our work together, and each session is a conversation about you and where you're at in the moment, including what is working for you and what isn't. Over time we will peel away layers to uncover the essential reasons for the pain in your heart, a re-consideration of deeply held beliefs and behaviors that do not serve you, and suggestions for moving through and past those limits so you learn to live a life you love. My role is to listen carefully and compassionately, to help you connect dots and illuminate patterns, to offer strategies for healing, and to ALWAYS be your cheerleader while still offering accountability for growth.

Having done this work for a very long time, I have learned that clients brings a unique constellation of thoughts and feelings, capacities, mindsets, and behaviors to the therapeutic process. As such, I use a diverse set of tools for working with clients that honor your individual strengths and needs. I believe it's essential to uncover the root causes for a client's hurting, and a psychodynamic approach is helpful for that. Additionally, I often use solution-focused scaling and positive view of the future, journaling and examination of thinking errors associated with CBT, as well as mindfulness and relaxation techniques, to name a few. As an interfaith spiritual director, I may also invite spirituality into the conversation for clients who identify faith as a source of strength.

• California, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, 61784