Hi there, I'm Summer!

I work with children, adolescents, and adults navigating trauma, relationships, life transitions, and identity. My practice is a space where you can explore challenges without judgment and discover patterns that no longer serve you.

My focus

I work with children, adolescents, and adults. My specialties include trauma-related disorders, relationships, stress, self-esteem, LGBTQIA+ issues, life transitions, depression, anger management, and anxiety. Honoring each client's personal needs and intersecting identities is the foundation for my work.

My approach

I take a collaborative, client-centered, strength-based approach toward healing. I incorporate expressive arts, mindfulness, and embodiment to help you explore patterns and behaviors. I use Trauma-Focused CBT, Internal Family Systems, Narrative Exposure Therapy, and Play therapy to empower your journey.

My communication style

I'm authentic, transparent, quirky, and gentle. I'm not afraid to be silly and use humor when appropriate. I've intentionally created a space where you can feel safe and comfortable discussing your challenges without judgment.

My journey to mental healthcare

I was an elementary school teacher before becoming a therapist. My students inspired me because they needed more emotional support than academic rigor. What drives me to do this work is that I think humans are absolutely fascinating. My curiosity has been the driving force behind my journey as a therapist.

My goals for you

I take a collaborative approach when setting goals for treatment. This allows us to work together to create your individual path toward wholeness and healing.

Our first session

We'll discuss what brings you to therapy and collaborate to establish your goals. I'll gather background information and answer questions about the therapeutic process. Most importantly, we'll begin building a trusting relationship as a foundation for our work together.

I identify as...

Female
Hispanic or Latinx, Caucasian or White

Expertise

Specialties

+ 8 more

Treatment approaches

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

Mindfulness-Based

Expressive Arts

Humanistic

Internal Family Systems (IFS)

Motivational Interviewing

Narrative

Play Therapy

Trauma Focused

+ 9 more

Focus populations

BIPOC

Body Positivity

Educators

First Generation American/Immigrant Parents

LGBTQIA+

Queer

+ 6 more

Therapy types

Individual Therapy

Ages served

Adults
Minors
Children

Practice

Accepted insurance providers

Aetna
All Savers
Allegiance
Allied
Anthem

+ 54 more

Languages spoken

English

Education

Master of Arts (MA) in Clinical Psychology with emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University.

Sessions

60 minutes

Virtual sessions

In-person sessions

32145 Alvarado Niles Rd, Union City, CA 94587

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Summer Vilkins