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Hello, my name is Willie Jean Barefield. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) located in Southern California. I currently provide services to adults; aged 18 and up who are experiencing challenges associated with, but not limited to Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Anger, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
My approach
The most common theoretical approaches I utilize in the warm, welcoming environment that I have created are Cognitive Behavioral and Solution Focused modalities. Clients are given the opportunity to identify, acknowledge, and take appropriate actions to experience transformation and re-write the ending to their stories should they choose to do so.
My focus
My personality, style, and approach have typically worked best with adults who have been unable to reconcile the challenges of normal everyday life with managing their emotions. Some even find themselves stuck in various situations and are unable to even imagine a way out. I have been able to offer assistance that enables clients to break the cycle of doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.
My communication style
When clients meet with me, they will be welcomed into an encouraging, no-judgment atmosphere as I begin the development of a rapport and establishment of an alliance designed to assist them in reaching their goals.
My journey to mental healthcare
My friends and neighbors often came to me for advice (since I was in 5th grade) and I knew then that I would be helping others for the rest of my life. I realized, after servicing families for 20 years as a Social Worker, that with my gifts and talents, it appeared I could better live out my purpose by becoming a therapist. I love helping people and being instrumental in making a difference in their lives.
My goals for you
Goal-setting is client specific and a team effort between the client and therapist. Clients are asked to discuss what they would like to get out of their therapy sessions and the therapist may describe possible methods of reaching those goals with the client's approval.
My first session with you
Clients' first session will consist of building a rapport and asking them questions regarding what brought them to therapy; and the signs and symptoms they have been experiencing over the weeks leading up to making a decision to reach out for help. Getting this information will assist me, as your therapist, in identifying the primary focus of your treatment.
