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My name is Mariko Terachi, a Marriage Family Therapist, with License Number 53237. My goal of therapy is to validate each client's unique quality that can be utilized in understanding the issues to be resolved toward the healing process. I help clients replace unhealthy and harmful thoughts with healthy, helpful and more positive accurate thoughts about client events in their experience. Clients can feel more empowered and regain control of their lives.
My approach
The Cognitive Behavioral Therapy approach is very effective in treating clients suffering resulting from trauma they experienced. In trauma cases, I use psycho-education, teaching them about the nature of trauma and common reactions to these experiences. I often incorporate teaching skills such as relaxation techniques, focus on breathing, mindfulness, diets and exercises as ways of dealing with anxiety area in clients. I use Solution-Focused Therapy to conduct a thorough assessment, measurable goals are constructed in order to keep therapy structured and focused as well as helping the client to focus on their progress on their journey to healing.
My focus
Young adults before marriage, who have lost their identities in school or career and own lives are my focus. Once they find their purpose in their own lives, and find their Inner Self, they become independent unique individuals. They can reestablish healthier relationships with their own family as well as secure strong bonds with friends by establishing own identity first through therapy.
My communication style
An unconditional and safe environment during the session will give the client and therapist the opportunity to develop a therapeutic respect for each other to promote continuation of therapy.
My journey to mental healthcare
Mariko Terachi grew up in Japan in a multigenerational household after the World War II era that led her to seek for her own voice. Coming to live in the U.S. gave her the opportunity to find concrete steps toward her mission of being a mental health community member. I firmly believe that my experience of losing a child and going through the healing process has been beneficial in helping others who have to deal with traumatic events in their lives.
My goals for you
As a therapist, I use a non-verbal communication style to detect the client's motive for his stance in the initial session. Asking questions in one way may deter the client from opening up for his initial communication. Once mutual communication starts, explicit communication helps both parties to process therapy for a solution. First, the therapist validates the clients' stories and normalizes their experiences which will make them understand their feelings, behaviors and their reactions to their situations. I always try to instill hope that things can get better, and they can get to happier and healthier lives.
My first session with you
As much as the client wants to share information is up to the client. I will wait until the time is ready for mutual therapeutic interaction to begin. Respecting time and space will eventually open up a mutual recognition for a conversation. The background information together with the current situation that may include medical information may be discussed for therapy outcome and goal.
