Holly Adams

Are you ready to feel better and live a better life? Hi, I'm Holly Adams, a Licensed Psychotherapist with over 21 years of experience providing counseling to help people make meaningful changes in their lives. I earned a Master's degree in Social Work from the University of California, Los Angeles and I have extensive training in psychotherapy techniques, including Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) Solution Focused Therapy. My counseling style can be described as compassionate, non-judgmental, and supportive. I focus on providing a safe and caring space where we can collaborate to identify your goals, build upon strengths, learn new skills and work toward making positive changes. I tailor my therapeutic approach to meet your unique needs, drawing from various models of psychotherapy including, cognitive behavior, humanistic, solution-focused, and problem-solving methods. It takes courage to recognize a need for help and to actually take the first step to connect with a therapist. If you are ready to make positive changes and improvements in your life, I am here to guide, support, and empower you in this process. Contact me today to schedule an appointment or to learn more about my services.

My approach

My approach to psychotherapy is based on working collaboratively with clients. I am not the source of answers and solutions, but rather a guide who can help clients identify and build upon their own strengths, to find their path, resolve issues and feel better. I draw from a number of therapeutic approaches, but I primarily utilize Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution Focused Therapy. I specialize in helping clients with depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, and stress-related issues. I also have extensive experience working with clients who are dealing with cancer, from the time of diagnosis, through treatment, and on into the post-treatment phase of survivorship.

My focus

I like to work with adults of all ages who have identified a problem and are ready to pursue therapy to find solutions and improve their lives. I appreciate clients who recognize that change isn't easy and that getting better may mean making sacrifices and taking risks. In particular, I enjoy working with people dealing with cancer, autoimmune disorders, and other serious health issues. It is a privilege for me to provide support and guidance during such difficult and vulnerable times.

My communication style

I describe my communication style as open, patient, non-judgmental, and warm. I am a skilled listener and strive to create a safe and comfortable space for clients to express thoughts and emotions. Sometimes I am directive, but my primary approach is to ask questions, listen and reflect to help clients improve their insights and find their way.

My journey to mental healthcare

As a teenager, I had a positive, influential experience with a therapist who helped me to grow and overcome some difficult challenges. I experienced firsthand how beneficial therapy could be and I was inspired to become a psychotherapist myself. I earned an undergraduate degree in psychology and a Master of Social Work degree with an emphasis on mental health. My clinical training began in graduate school when I worked as a psychotherapist at a community mental health clinic and at the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health, where I began training in CBT techniques. My work in mental health, medical, and private practice settings over the past 21 years has provided me with invaluable experience and countless learning opportunities. I strive to continuously learn and further develop my skills by taking classes and attending conferences in the areas of Cognitive Behavior Therapy, mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, chronic illness, cancer, and more.

My goals for you

I collaborate with clients to identify therapeutic goals that are meaningful and useful to them. Successful care and progress in treatment can be measured by improvement in functioning, reduction of symptoms, and overall improvement in quality of life. I evaluate progress toward goals, celebrate achievements, and modify treatment plans to promote further growth and development. Success is not viewed as 'all or none', as even partial achievement of goals represents progress and movement in the right direction.

My first session with you

When I meet with clients for the first time, I provide education on the psychotherapy process and my therapeutic approach. I focus on listening and learning about their concerns and needs. I like to collect as much information as possible, but I always start where the client is at and it is okay if they are not ready to share all details. I work collaboratively with clients to develop meaningful, measurable goals and outline a mutually agreed upon treatment plan.