Alexis Earkman

I’m Alexis, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over a decade of experience in California and I have been an independent provider with Rula since 2023. I work with adults dealing with mild to moderate depression, anxiety, stress, and low self-esteem. In addition to my clinical background, I have also completed training in yoga and meditation.

My approach

My therapeutic approach is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), which focus on identifying and challenging irrational thoughts and beliefs that contribute to emotional distress. When it comes to improving how we handle triggers, it is important to acknowledge that they will not simply disappear. In my experience, REBT has been highly effective in managing intense emotions like anxiety, worry, and despair. For more profound and lasting change, CBT plays a crucial role. Lastly, I like to emphasize the importance of cultivating daily habits that align with your goals and aspirations.

My focus

My style is well-suited for individuals dealing with mild to moderate depression, burnout, anxiety, work-life imbalance, stress, and self-esteem challenges who are seeking a structured approach to understanding the relationship between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I emphasize the importance of cultivating new habits and identifying automatic thoughts or core beliefs that may impede the establishment of these habits.

My communication style

My approach to communication is characterized by curiosity and a desire to understand underlying issues. I strive to not only provide a listening ear but also to delve into the “why behind the what” when offering education or interventions. When working with me, you can expect to feel empowered, engaged in deep thought, and reassured throughout our interactions. As a clinician, I do not simply act as a cheerleader or interrogator. Instead, I encourage clients to take a step back and view situations from a broader perspective. While this may initially feel uncomfortable, I believe that transparent and direct communication leads to increased self-awareness, fosters honesty, and establishes a sense of safety essential for a successful therapeutic relationship.

My journey to mental healthcare

I have always been a contemplative person with a keen sense of curiosity and a great deal of patience. Since my high school days, I have discovered a passion for engaging in deep conversations, actively listening to others, and posing thought-provoking questions to help them gain new perspectives on various situations. As I transitioned into the professional world, my focus shifted towards promoting burnout prevention, emphasizing self-care practices, and prioritizing overall wellness through nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle habits.

My goals for you

Goal setting is a collaborative process between me and you, focusing on the client's perspective. I find SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals to be an objective method to set and measure goals. In addition to using SMART goals, I recommend incorporating a habit tracker into the goal-setting process. Habit tracking can provide valuable insights into your behavior by helping you identify patterns and triggers that influence your actions. By understanding these factors, you can take steps to reinforce positive habits and minimize negative ones, ultimately making it easier to make progress toward your goals.

My first session with you

In the first session, you can expect to spend a significant portion of the time discussing your goals and expectations for therapy. During this initial session, you will also have the opportunity to determine if I am the right therapist for you. It is essential to find a therapist with whom you feel comfortable and supported, as this will help to build trust and facilitate a productive therapeutic alliance. Research has shown that a strong therapeutic alliance is one of the most important factors in achieving successful therapy outcomes. Ultimately, the success of therapy depends on many factors, but establishing a solid foundation through open communication and a positive therapeutic relationship is a crucial first step.