Sabeen Ahmed

My name is Sabeen Ahmed, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. I use a mindfulness and strengths-based approach to healing and therapy. I have worked extensively with adults, children, and families, specializing in trauma, stress, and depression. I believe as humans, we all have the ability to heal ourselves within us and can access this ability to find the peace and contentment we seek.

My approach

My approach to therapy depends on the needs and unique personalities of each client. Primarily I like to use mindfulness-based techniques in combination with cognitive-behavioral therapy, narrative therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy. As we begin to shift the stories we tell ourselves in a way that resonates with our souls, we experience change and progress. Most importantly, however, I believe that a loving, supportive, and present relationship based on acceptance and unconditional positive regard between therapist and client plays the most significant role in creating transformation.

My focus

I typically work with people with a history of trauma or mental health difficulties, particularly women, adolescents, and young adults. More specifically, I have experience working with women who have experienced gender-based or intimate partner violence and adolescents, adults, and families coping with mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, amongst more severe illnesses. Whether its a life transition, unhealthy relationship, past trauma, or some other triggering event leading to pain and discomfort, I help empower my clients to find the strength within themselves to overcome their challenges.

My communication style

My communication style is calm, warm, and nonjudgmental. I work respectfully and collaboratively with my clients to find how best to make the changes they seek in their lives. My goal is for my clients to feel their voice is heard and that their voice is powerful.

My journey to mental healthcare

The suffering of the mind is, to me, one of the major ailments in society. I have always been drawn to bringing soothing and comfort to others. My mission is to alleviate the suffering of others and help them see the light and power within themselves. I believe many of us do not receive the care we need from ourselves, and we go through life ignoring the pain inside us. To me, humans are on this earth to love one another, serve one another, and connect with one another.

My goals for you

Sometimes we come to therapy and don't know what our goal is. It's possible your goals begin to form over the course of therapy, which is perfectly alright. I elicit from clients what change they wish to see in their lives and then collaborate to establish goals that would motivate them to actively participate in therapy. Setting goals helps us identify what is important to us, and working towards them gives us a sense of empowerment and direction.

My first session with you

In our first session together, I like to get a better sense of what brings you to therapy and what you hope to get out of it. I want to understand what's been going on for you recently, how you have been feeling, and why. To the extent that you feel comfortable, I hope to get to know you and what style works for you and help you feel comfortable in working together by telling you about how I approach therapy. I also do my best to answer any questions you have about the therapeutic process.