Victoria LandesLCSW

Trust is one of the most essential components of the therapeutic relationship. Trust is built when clients feel seen, heard, and cared for by their therapist. A trusting relationship allows clients to open up and share deeply, as well as gain powerful insights that allow for progress and growth.

My personality and style exude empathy, warmth, and compassion, which allow me to build an open and trusting relationship with my clients. I have personally navigated many challenging life circumstances and utilized various healing methods on my healing journey. I am a problem solver and helper by nature, and I use all the resources and skills I have to help my clients with their presenting needs. As a social worker, I am part therapist, resource specialist, advocate, educator, and care coordinator. I have studied and experienced multiple healing modalities and strongly believe in attending to the whole person. Together with my clients, we create a holistic care plan that addresses physical, mental/emotional, and spiritual levels. I deeply care for my clients and am very dedicated to their well-being. I rejoice in watching them build on their strengths to manage better whatever challenges they may face.

Most of my clinical experience has been in the field of cancer care, where I have accompanied cancer survivors and their loved ones through the many challenges they face. Often a cancer diagnosis brings a flood of emotions such as shock and disbelief, fear, sadness, anger, and frustration. In facing one's own mortality, it can call into question how and with whom people wish to spend their precious time. It can also be a time where loss is experienced on many levels. Cancer survivors and their caregivers often come to their diagnosis with existing problems and may already be carrying a heavy load of stress in several areas of their lives. Navigating cancer care can be a full-time job that must be added to an already full plate. My role in accompanying people through medical challenges is varied, and I draw upon all the skills that I have to meet my clients wherever they are and to address their needs as they arise. I function as a therapist, helping them navigate the mental, emotional, and spiritual upheaval that can accompany a diagnosis. I also assist in navigating the many facets of the health care system and connect them with much-needed resources.

• Florida, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, SW 18037
• California, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, 18104

I developed my expertise in the medical field over the last 29 years working in various health care settings, including hospitals, hospices, oncology, and integrative medical clinics. I have assisted thousands of clients in navigating multiple medical diagnoses, with an emphasis on cancer care. I have a keen awareness and understanding of the issues people face when coping with illness and have also developed specialties in caregiver support, grief and loss, and end-of-life issues. I have a strong interest and passion for integrative medicine and assist clients in exploring self-care practices utilizing various holistic healing modalities. I have extensive knowledge of the health care system and the various resources available to assist clients on their path. In addition, my years of experience have helped me gain expertise in working with anxiety and depression. I take an eclectic therapeutic approach to my work and tailor my work to the unique needs of my clients.