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My name is Judi Anne, Ph.D. (human sexuality). I am a licensed Marriage and Family therapist (132685), and a Registered Nurse (9307004). Because of my broad range of mental and physical health education, I use a holistic approach (mind, body, & soul). I have an expertise in the LGBTQ+ community as a result of an extended education of the American Counseling Association (ACA) transgender clients competencies (surgeries, hormones replacement, ethical and legal regulations).
My approach
Mental health therapy requires open and honest communication skills. I use a variety of techniques that are most appropriate and that correlate with the problem at hand. For example, chronic anxiety may require the combination of CBT therapy and relaxation exercises; post-traumatic stress and childhood trauma may respond to desensitization; couple therapy requires improved communication and negotiation skills; and LGBTQ+ clients, most frequently require affirming and informed therapy to validate the clients experiences.
My focus
The patients that I typically work with are clients who have past and current anxiety, trauma, and couples who are struggling. I also specialize in the LGBTQ+ community and clients who are gender non-conforming.
My communication style
In general, my goal is to create a nonjudgmental and safe environment, a place where the client feels they can express their thoughts, feelings and desires openly. Clients usually strive for a comfortable solution for their problems. My objective is to help clients find emotional peace. To negotiate solutions through the client/therapist relationship.
My journey to mental healthcare
In 1975, I began to work as a psychiatric technician in the Mental Health Department at an acute hospital in Laguna Beach. I remained employed in that position for four years. I returned to college to become a registered nurse and later attained employment in the Emergency Department at UCI Medical Center. Ten years later, I enrolled in a masters-level counseling program. After collecting and completing 3000 internship hours at the LGBT Center, I qualify to take and passed the Marriage and Family state exam. In the meantime, I earned a Ph.D in a doctoral program in Human Sexuality.
My goals for you
I listen to the client explain their main purpose for therapy. This becomes goal #1. As therapy progresses, other appropriate goal will be included in the treatment plan.
My first session with you
Begins by building a rapport with the client. Discussing the background of the problem is imperative.
