Miranda Menard

My name is Miranda Menard, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based out of Albany, NY. I work statewide with clients via telehealth. I work with teens and adults specializing in anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep, and self-esteem. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy- Insomnia, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to help my clients feel better. I help my clients to improve their quality of sleep, stay focused on the present moment, have a better understanding of your thoughts and emotions, and find acceptance of your thoughts and emotions to cope with difficult emotions and put your energy into healing.

My approach

My approach to therapy is a person-centered approach where you have control over what you’d like to talk about and work on in therapy and we work together to help you to get to where you want to be. I most frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Insomnia and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, these modalities help me, and the client build a shared understanding of their reality, and allow us to work together towards your goal.

My focus

In life, we go through different experiences and stages that we are expected to adapt to. I have found that my style and approach are a good fit for individuals who may be dealing with challenges to life transitions, insecurities, sleep disturbances, challenges that stem from difficulties focusing, and interpersonal skills. I work to help my clients build skills to develop a good sense of self, develop personal empowerment, navigate through transition periods, and develop a positive outlook on life.

My communication style

My communication style is calm, personable, and open-minded. I want my clients to feel comfortable and validated, and have a sense of safety to speak about anything. I want you to feel heard without judgment.

My journey to mental healthcare

In my journey to becoming a therapist, I have always had a passion for helping people. In college, I spoke with my academic advisor explaining that I wanted to help people improve their moods and lives, and advocate for people to help meet their needs. She encouraged me to take a Social Work 101 class. The first day of class when the professor was going over what the class would consist of, I knew that was exactly where I was meant to be and now I’m going on 6 years as a therapist. I have learned the importance of empowering people to help themselves. I have always been naturally drawn to helping people through difficult times. I value the skill of actively listening and have been referred to as an old soul.

My goals for you

My approach to goal setting is simple. I listen to how you’ve been feeling and what you’d like to focus on in therapy and from there we’ll come up with a goal together. Goals for therapy are about whatever you’d like to get out of therapy.

My first session with you

During our first session, you can expect a quiet, comforting environment, spending time getting to know each other. We will spend time talking about how you’ve been feeling and I will ask questions to better understand your story. The first session is about building an initial connection and helping to make sense of where we should go from there. Each individual is different and I will listen to you in regards to how you’d like your treatment to go that best works for you.