Angela Zuidema

Hello, My name is Angela Zuidema, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I've been practicing clinical counseling with an emphasis on individual, marital, and family therapy and Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for over 30 years.

My approach

I am a well-rounded clinician wherein my approach to assisting and supporting clients is based on the current situation and present moment or now, i.e., whatever the client brings or the reason for a visit. I am an active clinician in session, focused, and utilize multiple techniques such as CBT, Compassion, Acceptance, Mind-Body-Spirit, Coping Skills, Grief, and Healing approaches, and best practices for the goodness of the client.

My focus

I have worked with adult individuals and couples mostly regarding a wide range of personal/work-related issues, such as work and personal stress, emotional concerns, adverse outcomes, death, critical incident debriefing, consultation, education, training and groups, referral, family and relationship difficulties, alcohol and drug problems, and domestic abuse.

My communication style

Building rapport through effective communication and listening is a fundamental and necessary attribute that I absolutely carry with me when I am with a client. I create a safe space and secure environment for my client to process their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors without any judgment or criticism. I engage my client in problem-solving, education, and effective coping strategies as well as incorporating art, drawing, and writing techniques during sessions to increase awareness and understanding of their potential to take control or change.

My journey to mental healthcare

I grew up in the Philippines and came from a close-knit family. One of my earliest memories was every Sunday after church we gathered around my grandmother's house and spent time together and eating. My grandmother had a big round table where all my aunts and uncles would sit, talking, sharing, and expressing their joys, fears, worries, hopes, wishes, and gossiping about other people's business. I was enthralled by their passion, fears, perceptions, feelings, and critical and judgmental behavior. From that experience, I became more observant, intuitive, and compassionate about people's behavior and actions. I promised myself to be good and see the goodness of others no matter what the situation or circumstance. Today, I continue to embody that promise as a clinician or psychotherapist; I see the goodness of others. What brings you here? I am creating a safe space and holding space for you at this moment. How can I help you today?

My goals for you

I usually ask my client what their goal is for today's session or will ask if there's anything from our previous session they need to address for today.

My first session with you

I hope that my clients expect a safe space to process their experiences and issues either at work or at home, and I am here to help you find solutions for your problems.