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My name is Michelle Watson, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I take a strength-based and client-centered approach to therapy with a focus on skill-building interventions.
My approach
I have been trained in several treatment modalities, including motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based stress reduction, and cognitive processing therapy. I tend to use a combination of these modalities when working with clients depending on the needs and goals of the individual.
My focus
I specialize in the treatment of addiction and help people recover from depression, anxiety, co-dependency, trauma, and dysfunctional behavior that results from trauma. I especially enjoy working with Adult Children of Alcoholics (ACA) and dysfunctional families.
My communication style
I help people learn the skills they wish they had been taught as children—things like emotion regulation, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and mindfulness. My goal is to help you unearth the answers to what you’re looking for in order to live a more fulfilling and peaceful life.
My journey to mental healthcare
I was raised by two licensed therapists (both of my parents are licensed clinical social workers), and I have always been interested in human behavior, psychology, and sociology. I studied Psychology at UCLA, and my experience there only further motivated me to pursue a career in psychotherapy. After earning my Masters's degree in Social Work from SDSU, I went on to work in an inpatient psychiatric hospital, a crisis house, and outpatient addiction medicine clinics. I have continued to work in the field because I love what I learn from my clients, and I find the work to be incredibly fulfilling.
My goals for you
When setting goals with clients, we focus on your priorities and what you hope to learn in therapy.
My first session with you
During our first session, I will gather information about what prompted you to seek therapy and what you hope to address. I will give you time to ask me questions and discuss what to expect in our work together.
