Tkeynah Binyamin LMHC

A key component of the therapeutic relationship is flexibility. Any good therapist will be flexible in adapting treatment to each client’s needs and characteristics. Therapy should not be viewed as a “one size fits all” approach and instead be seen as a fluid process which may gradually evolve over time. I believe that each person is truly an expert on themselves and everyone has unique needs. Therefore, what might be beneficial for one person may not be the best fit for someone else. A flexible therapist recognizes that there are many effective styles / approaches to treatment and works with the client to find the right one.

The first step in determining therapy goals with clients is to find out what you want out of counseling, or in other words, what is your ideal result? Secondly, it is important to know your motivation for seeking therapy is (e.g. are you feeling overwhelmed, depressed, lonely, etc.) to ensure that your goals are based on your current needs. Next, we will work on choosing a starting point for each goal and as a therapist, I am mindful of meeting each client where they are. Goals should be broken down into smaller steps to help reduce anxiety or feelings that this is not something you can accomplish. With each step, we will gradually move out of your comfort zone so you can challenge yourself. It is important to keep in mind potential barriers you may face long they way, therefore we will work together to identify scenarios that could potentially hinder your success with reaching each goal. While it is impossible to predict everything, having a back up plan in place is useful to help you tackle any obstacles. Remember, taking the first step towards your goal is important and as you accomplish each step it can personally motivating to keep going.

I believe that success is not always about greatness and is instead about consistency. I have found that the motto practice makes perfect often holds true in many areas of my life on an individual and professional level. This concept also applies in the therapeutic process because in order to see progress / success, you have to be consistent and willing to put in the time for the results.

• New York, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, 010718-01

I am currently a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York with over 5 years of experience working as a therapist and rehabilitation counselor. I have done both individual and group therapy with adults who have a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, stress management, substance use, developmental disabilities, and career development. I currently work for the Office of Mental Health (OMH) at a transitional housing program with clients that have severe psychiatric and behavioral conditions. I provide person-centered care in which I encourage and empower the client to be an active participant in the recovery process. Prior to working for OMH, I worked with individuals who had a varying range of intellectual and/or physical disabilities. I mentored each person 1:1 on how to build their skillsets in areas such as communication or money management based upon treatment plans I created that were tailored to their interests and needs. My experience with various populations has allowed for me to grow professionally because I have learned and currently practice numerous techniques involved in mental health treatment.