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My name is Ana Halstad and as a California-based Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I offer individual therapy for adults to support the treatment of anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, and stress.
My approach
My professional experience is wide-ranging and includes over 15 years working with people at end of life, providing grief counseling within hospice and the community, and working with children, teens, and adults across various mental health settings.
My focus
Therapeutically, I have an integrative, holistic, and culturally responsive approach, allowing me to connect with clients entirely as they are. While I’m grounded in a client-centered and strength-based approach, I also borrow from the following modalities to help guide my work: humanistic/existential orientations, attachment-based perspectives, trauma-informed care, somatic awareness and mindfulness practices.
My communication style
I view therapy as a collaborative process in which I value your unique experience and perspective and tailor my approach to support your goals, strengths, and needs. I believe cultivating a non-judgmental, authentic, and compassionate space where you can be seen and understood is the foundation for discovering a way forward and accomplishing meaningful change that you deserve.
My journey to mental healthcare
My professional experience is wide-ranging and includes over 20 years working with people at end of life, providing grief counseling within hospice and the community, and working with children, teens, and adults across various mental health settings. I studied at the University of Santa Cruz where I earned my Bachelor's of Art in Psychology. I continued my education at California State San Diego where I earned my Master's in Social Work with a concentration in Child and Social Welfare. I am incredibly passionate and purposeful in the work that I do and I am consistently amazed at the resilience and strength people bring forth as they confront some of the most challenging experiences and emotions in their lives.
My goals for you
I view therapy as a collaborative process in which I value your unique experience and perspective, and tailor my approach to support your goals, strength and needs. I believe cultivating a non-judgmental, authentic and compassionate space where you can be seen and understood is the foundation to discovering a way forward and accomplishing meaningful change that you deserve.
My first session with you
During your first session, I will embrace curiosity as a passage to deeper connection and understanding of your therapeutic needs. I believe good therapy is challenging yet warm, providing structure and empathy for your unique experience. I will take a compassionate, engaged, and active approach and together we will explore strengths and identify personalized goals or skills you can work on.
