Tanya Ward

My name is Tanya Ward, and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. I embrace a compassionate and client-centered approach to therapy and am committed to fostering a safe and nonjudgmental environment. I encourage individuals to explore their authentic selves and collaboratively address the challenges and obstacles hindering their personal growth and well-being. I specialize in working with trauma, anxiety, depression, and couples issues.

My approach

I like to utilize a holistic and integrative approach to therapy, drawing from various therapeutic modalities to meet the unique needs of my clients. I frequently use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to help individuals process and heal from trauma and distressing life experiences. In addition, I utilize Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy to explore the inner dynamics of my clients' psyche and promote self-awareness and healing. Overall I embrace the principles of client-centered therapy to create a supportive and nonjudgmental space for clients to express themselves authentically. Utilizing attachment-based therapies, I acknowledge the importance of healthy interpersonal relationships and how these bonds impact emotional well-being. I provide an individualized therapeutic approach that empowers clients to work through their unique challenges and achieve personal growth and transformation.

My focus

I specialize in working with diverse clients, including individuals, couples, and families seeking support for various mental and emotional challenges. I am particularly comfortable and experienced in treating clients with trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and family dynamics. My expertise in modalities such as EMDR, IFS, client-centered, and attachment-based therapies equip me to address these concerns effectively, fostering healing and personal growth with my clients.

My communication style

In my office, you can expect a warm and empathetic environment where you are encouraged to express yourself freely without fear of judgment. I like fostering a safe, nurturing space that promotes trust and open communication. My approach is collaborative and client-centered, ensuring that individuals feel heard, valued, and supported throughout their therapeutic journey. My hope is that working with me feels like being with a compassionate and skilled guide dedicated to helping clients navigate their challenges and achieve personal growth and healing.

My journey to mental healthcare

My journey to becoming a therapist was driven by a deep-seated desire to help others and a personal experience that ignited my passion for the field. From a young age, I felt a strong desire to help others. My own transformative experience with therapy served as a pivotal moment for me; it helped me realize the impact of therapeutic work. I knew then that I wanted to be able to give that gift to others!

My goals for you

My approach to goal setting with clients is through a collaborative and client-centered process. I believe in involving clients actively in defining their therapeutic objectives. My approach typically involves the following steps: Assessment: I begin by thoroughly assessing the client's needs, concerns, and aspirations. This assessment helps me understand the client's unique situation and challenges. Exploration: I work with the client to explore their personal goals and objectives for therapy. This may involve discussing what they hope to achieve, what changes they want to make in their life, and the specific areas they want to focus on. Prioritization: Together, we prioritize these goals, considering their immediate and long-term importance. This step ensures that the client's most pressing concerns are addressed first. S.M.A.R.T. Goals: I assist clients in setting Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound (S.M.A.R.T.) goals. This approach makes goals more concrete and achievable. Collaborative Planning: We collaboratively develop a plan of action, outlining the steps, strategies, and interventions that will be used to work towards these goals. Regular Review: I like to regularly review progress with the client to ensure they remain on track and make any necessary adjustments to the goals and strategies as circumstances change. By involving my clients in goal setting, we ensure that therapy is tailored to their unique needs and that they feel a sense of ownership and motivation in the therapeutic process. This approach empowers clients to work towards their desired outcomes effectively.

My first session with you

During the first session with me, clients can expect a welcoming and supportive environment designed to establish a foundation of trust and collaboration. Here's what clients can typically anticipate: Introduction and Rapport Building: I will begin by introducing myself and creating a warm, nonjudgmental atmosphere. I will encourage clients to share as much or as little as they are comfortable with, promoting a sense of safety and openness. Confidentiality and Informed Consent: I will explain the principles of confidentiality, ensuring that clients understand the limits and exceptions to privacy in the therapeutic relationship. Informed consent for therapy will also be discussed. Client History and Concerns: I will inquire about the client's background, life experiences, and reasons for seeking therapy. Clients will have the opportunity to discuss their current challenges, emotions, and any specific goals they may have. Expectations and Goals: I will discuss what clients hope to achieve through therapy and help them clarify their expectations. This may include setting initial therapy goals or discussing the client's vision for personal growth and healing. Therapeutic Approach: I will explain my therapeutic approach, including the modalities I may use (such as EMDR, IFS, client-centered, or attachment-based therapies), and how they will be tailored to the client's needs. Collaborative Planning: We will collaborate on an initial plan for therapy, outlining potential strategies and interventions that will be used to address the client's concerns and work towards their goals. Questions and Concerns: Clients are encouraged to ask any questions they may have about the therapy process, including the duration of sessions, frequency of sessions, and any other logistical or personal concerns. Next Steps: I will then discuss the frequency of future sessions and scheduling, ensuring clients have a clear understanding of what to expect moving forward. The first session serves as an essential opportunity for clients to get to know me and my therapeutic approach while I better understand the client's needs. It lays the foundation for a collaborative and trusting therapeutic relationship to support the client on their journey towards personal growth and healing.