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Do you find yourself falling into unhelpful patterns, without knowing why or how to change them? I am Francisca Ammerman, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I help clients gain clarity around what needs to shift and provide the support to try out new ways of being in the world.
My approach
Ensuring a safe, comfortable, and calming environment, I utilized different theoretical approaches to match my client's needs. This can include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered, and Solution Focused.
My focus
The family unit is the strongest support system within an individual's life. I offer individual sessions to parents wanting to become more reflective and present in that role. I also help teens who are navigating life transitions, relationships, as well as those individuals who simply want to create a life that feels more aligned with their values.
My communication style
I believe in allowing my clients to take the lead within their sessions. I do not pressure clients to discuss situations that they are not ready to discuss. I believe in guiding my clients in their choices within their lives as they process past situations, current stresses, and family structures. I ensure that my clients feel safe during our time together as we work as a team in the treatment.
My journey to mental healthcare
As a young child, I often wondered, "why do people do what they do?" This question has led me to discover my love and passion for therapy. I graduated with my bachelor's in Liberal Studies and my master's in Counseling Psychology from California Baptist University and earned my Pupil Personnel Services credential from Brandman University. I then began my professional career as a therapist working within the school districts (2012) as both a therapist and a school counselor as well as working with children and adults that have experienced trauma. I began my private practice in 2021 taking on clients who were seeking help in their relationships within their homes and at work, as well as, working with teenagers who are navigating through the confusing and hard adolescent times.
My goals for you
Goal setting is important for individuals who want to improve their life. This step in your treatment helps you to remain accountable for the things that you want to achieve. During your session, we will work on your goals whether it includes facilitating behavioral change, helping to improve your ability to establish and maintain relationships, enhancing your ability to cope, or helping to promote positive decision-making. Goals help you navigate through life and help you to see your progress as you achieve success.
My first session with you
During our first session, I work on getting to know my clients and their current paths. One of the most important questions that I ask is, "what brought you to counseling." I want to hear how you are currently working with your stressors and discuss the goals that you would like to work towards. I also work with you to learn of your expectations for your therapy services as you also begin to get to know me.
