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My name is Alisha Arkebauer, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) specializing in the clinical practice of mental health and forensics. For the last 20 years, I have helped people of all ages, cultures, and backgrounds improve their lives and heal from mental and emotional distress.
My approach
I place emphasis on the development of a positive therapeutic relationship that fosters empowerment and safety. With a therapeutic approach based on an eclectic use of a wide range of theories and therapeutic techniques and selected based on the relevance to each unique client's situation and needs.
My focus
Currently, I provide direct services to clients who are having difficulties managing, overcoming, and coping with the challenges associated with trauma, involvement in the criminal justice system, abuse, addiction, gender dysphoria, and mental health concerns. Diagnosing and treating all types of mental illness, including everything from the common depressive, bipolar, and personality disorders (i.e. Anti-social Personality and Borderline Personality), all the way up to schizophrenia, clinical depression, substance use, and other forms of severe and debilitating mental illness. In addition to this, I spent 5 years in the Army working with active duty military and the past 3 years working with law enforcement.
My communication style
I believe a therapeutic environment has a calming effect, reduces stress, and makes the client feel comfortable and safe to be themselves. I have found this helps to create a climate of trust and understanding where a client can unpack their vulnerabilities and move toward healing.
My journey to mental healthcare
I started my educational journey as a Pre-Med student. However, I came to find chemistry is not my strong point. Armed with a continued passion for science I turned my attention to the study of the mind. As I began to work in the mental health field, I discovered I truly enjoyed helping people to better understand how their minds work. Giving people the life-changing skills to develop mental resilience and become healthier, stronger, and more empowered.
My goals for you
I get to know my clients beyond their symptoms and illness experience. With an understanding that talking about goals and the future can be overwhelming for many people. I like to ease into goal setting by discussing what they have always wanted to do or think that they would like to do. Essentially, examining how they hope to see themselves in the future.
