Diana Methfessel

My name is Diana Methfessel, a Licensed Marriage Family (LMFT) based in Walnut Creek and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with individuals, adolescents, and couples, specializing in anxiety, stress, depression, and life-stage transitions. Of the thirty-six years as a clinician, I find Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, and Mindful Based Therapy beneficial. For trauma-based concerns, I use Cognitive Processing Therapy, The Flash Technique, and psychodynamic methods.

My approach

My approach to therapy varies based on the needs of each client I work with. No matter what approach is used I help you define your goals, and create a self-care plan using the therapeutic tools/ techniques that I introduce you to. I most frequently use the Mindfulness-based approach which includes - Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Strength-based, as well as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. These modalities, promote your self-discovery and enhance your understanding of your emotions and relationships. Practicing tools learned in your sessions will lead to a better command of life's conflicts and decisions.

My focus

I have found that my style and approach are a good fit for adults of all ages, couples, and adolescents in high school with the challenges of life transitions and social pressures. I am able to counsel in areas of anxiety/stress; depression/grief, work challenges; parent-child conflict; transitions in life; alcohol/substance recovery support for someone struggling and support for family members; LGBTQ+ exploration, and family support. I am trained in trauma-related concerns and crisis work events. I work to help my clients navigate these challenges and to build skills to allow them to feel better about themselves and develop a more positive outlook on life.

My communication style

My communication style is calm, accommodating, and personable. I want my clients to feel comfortable talking with me about anything, and I pride myself on my ability to listen without judgment. I will regularly inquire about your satisfaction with your counseling sessions.

My journey to mental healthcare

As a young adult, I discovered I had the skill to support and help others. This has never faltered. It's a joy to see someone discover their strength after a battle with whatever challenges they have had. It is the best feeling to hear from a client - "I am in charge of my life" and or "I have acceptance and peace".

My goals for you

My approach to goal setting with clients is all about working together to define what you want to accomplish in our time together. This often starts by building trust between us and getting comfortable with what it means to be in therapy. We'll work together to set an initial goal on your first session, then create a more detailed plan over time. Goals are broken down into smaller increments so that you can achieve success. The goal plan will include the best approach(s) and tools that we can use.

My first session with you

What you can expect from our first session together is for us to spend the majority of our time talking about how you've been feeling recently and for me to ask questions to better understand some of why you may be feeling that way. The first session is about us building an initial connection and helping me get a sense of where we should go from there. Each individual is different, and I like to listen first before assuming I know what will work best for you moving forward. I will end the session by presenting a "Resource/Tool" list that I have compiled. This list may offer you some tools to bring comfort to your anxiety, stress, and depression until the next session.