Hello. My name is Heather Gramme. It is nice to meet you. I have been working as a licensed clinical social worker since 2014. My license number in CA is, LCSW86925. I also hold LCSW licensure in Florida and Idaho. I use a very eclectic approach as my therapeutic style to meet the very unique needs of each individual client that I have the privilege of working with. I have many years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families. I have worked with children as young as 8, and clients in their 80's.
My approach
The most common therapeutic approaches that I use are: cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, motivational interviewing, psychodynamic therapy, mindfulness practices, and solution focused therapy. I use a very eclectic approach to meet the very unique needs of each client that I work with.
My focus
I have worked with clients of all ages, from children as young as 8 years old, to older adults in their 80's. Conditions that I have a lot of experience working with are: depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, bipolar, schizophrenia, grief, suicidal ideation, anger management, and dual diagnosis.
My communication style
I have a very soft and supportive approach when I work with clients. I always start where the client is at, and I consider myself a true advocate for clients that I work with. I think I am very warm, friendly, and easy to talk with. My goal is to try and truly understand a client's situation, and how best I may be able to provide support for client's to work towards their therapeutic goals.
My journey to mental healthcare
My own childhood experiences and life journey have been the primary reasons that I have pursued a career working as a therapist. I knew from a young age that I wanted to be in a helping profession, such as working as a therapist. What drives me more than anything, is trying to make a positive difference in client's lives whom I am privileged to work with. Personally, I cannot think of any greater purpose in my own life than to help fellow travelers along this journey in life.
My goals for you
I approach goal setting with clients by trying to clearly define desired therapeutic goals within the first 1-2 sessions. I have found that goals that are clearly defined, realistic, and measurable to be the most helpful with clients. I find the SMART goals approach to be very helpful when working with clients.
My first session with you
During a first session with a client I always hope to gain an overall picture and understanding of what is going on in a client's life, the primary reason a client is seeking therapy, and primary goals for therapy. Since this is a lot of information to try and discuss during a one hour session, sometimes this is continued into a second session. I like to describe this process as meeting with a client during a first session with a blank canvas, with the hopes of the canvas being painted by the first or second session, with an overall picture of a client's life and circumstances.