Tania Benacerraf

Hi, My name is Tania Benacerraf and I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in CA for 25 years. I use a strength-based communication approach that focuses on evoking your motivation for growth and change. My focus areas of practice include depression, adjustment to life stressors, anxiety, substance use, and trauma-related symptoms.

My approach

I approach all of my work from a Motivational Interviewing background--I am a member of the Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers (MINT). My work is also informed by CBT, DBT, Family Systems, and Person-Centered therapy approaches.

My focus

I have worked with children, families, and couples. I have spent the last 20+ years addressing families impacted by violence in and outside the home as well as trauma related to early childhood experiences of abuse, neglect, and loss of country of origin. I am comfortable addressing the impact of systemic oppression based on race, culture, SES, and gender/sexuality areas of difference. I am additionally comfortable and interested in addressing changes related to aging and life transitions.

My communication style

I have outstanding listening skills and focus a great deal of attention on ensuring that my clients feel heard and understood. I am empathic and compassionate and assume a gentle guiding approach that focuses on evoking from my clients the strength and resources that exists within them to move in the direction of growth and change.

My journey to mental healthcare

I believe in the healing power of connection and that all human beings yearn to love and be loved, to belong, to have a purpose, to feel connected, to be capable, and to have power over their own destiny. I have made it my life's work to be someone who can not only acknowledge and normalize these needs in others but also partner with them on their journey to obtain them.

My goals for you

I believe that goal setting is a joint process where I partner with the client to determine an agreed-upon focus that makes the most sense for the scope of our work together. I believe that treatment goals and focus are in constant fluctuation and that regularly revisiting and reassessing them throughout treatment is vital to a successful outcome.

My first session with you

The first session is critical in predicting the likelihood that a client will return for services. I believe that my most important task is to demonstrate acceptance and unconditional positive regard so that the client feels welcomed and safe in this space. My hope is to lay the foundation for a therapeutic alliance while simultaneously assessing for safety and appropriateness of "fit" through a gentle exploration of presenting concerns/symptoms and prior history.