Judy Goldman

Hi, I am Judy Goldman a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California with over 25 years’ experience in the mental health field. I specialize in life transitions which include loss, grief, adoption, families, children, adolescents, and adults presenting with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety. Loss is not always obvious and can show up in so many aspects of our life.

My approach

My approach to therapy is eclectic, incorporating elements of person-centered allowing the client to take more the lead in their sessions and in the process, to find their own solutions. I believe that using this approach I can help my clients learn their strengths and build skills to allow them to feel better about themselves.

My focus

I work well with individuals who are having difficulties dealing with their life’s challenges and transitions. I support individuals in finding the meaning from the loss and changes, they are experiencing.

My communication style

My communication style is open, accommodating, and patient. I want my clients to feel safe in my presence so they can speak with someone who is listening to them without judgment. I believe it is important to display natural empathy and caring for the client.

My journey to mental healthcare

I have always wanted to help people. I majored in social work, in college. Later, I earned a master’s degree in social work, with a concentration in mental health, from USC. I became a licensed therapist soon after. In between college and becoming a therapist, I moved from Philadelphia to Connecticut, and finally, to California. I raised two children and spent several years as a para-professional counselor before going back to graduate school. After graduate school, I worked in adoption and foster care. Over the years, I’ve become familiar with a variety of therapeutic models, and I’ve worked with all sorts of people. I value many of the tenants of social work, including individualization, client self-determination, acceptance, maintaining a non-judgmental attitude and, of course, confidentiality. I love what I do!

My goals for you

Before setting goals with a client, I will begin by building a rapport of trust between us and what they hope to gain in therapy. As our rapport grows, we will collaborate together setting realistic goals that the client feels doable.

My first session with you

Our first session together is to learn about why the client has come and their expectations and what they hope to accomplish. I will explain my role as a therapist and how the process will proceed. I strive to create a welcoming, non-judgmental, and safe environment for the clients to be who they are and to be able to achieve what they deserve.