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My name is Kim VanKirk and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. I provide telehealth mental health therapy and specialize in treating adults with anxiety disorders, trauma and stressor-related disorders, and perinatal mood disorders. I use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, EMDR, Mindfulness and Meditation, and Solution Focused Therapy to help my clients meet their goals.
My approach
I most commonly utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, EMDR, Mindfulness and Meditation, and Solution Focused Therapy. I tailor my therapeutic approach to meet my clients' individual needs. I am a goal-directed therapist meaning I focus on specific actionable steps that can be taken to reduce my clients' symptoms during each session.
My focus
I typically work with adults who are experiencing anxiety and symptoms of trauma. Most of my clinical education has been pursuing how to best alleviate these types of symptoms. I also have specialized training in working with perinatal mood disorders.
My communication style
This can vary based on my clients' unique needs. I always try and create a space that is free of judgment and includes active planning and goal-setting to meet my clients' particular needs. I also utilize a strengths-based approach to reduce the shame that can be associated with mental health symptoms. Since I primarily work with anxiety and trauma-related disorders some components of my sessions usually focus on teaching calming coping strategies such as mindfulness and meditation.
My journey to mental healthcare
I have always wanted a career in which I can help others. I happened to really enjoy psychology in college and began pursuing therapy as a career as a result. I currently practice a combination of all of the coping skills and strategies that I teach my clients and feel they have greatly benefited my life as well as other clients. I want to continue sharing these techniques so that emotional health and well-being are a the forefront of most peoples' lives. It is just as essential as a healthy diet and exercise, in my opinion.
My goals for you
Goal setting is one of the most important aspects of our therapeutic sessions. I like my clients to feel like they have something to work on between sessions that can help alleviate their symptoms.
My first session with you
Our first session will be about getting to know each other. I will gather information about your current symptoms and your goals for therapy. I will likely give some basic psychoeducation about your symptoms and treatment approaches that you may benefit from. From there, we will develop therapeutic goals together. I am always open to questions and feedback throughout our sessions together.
