Denise Filer

My communication style

I create and hold a safe place for people. I encourage them to be their advocate in this space. I am very direct yet appropriate to the situation and the person. I ask if they understood what I meant or said, so there is no misunderstanding.

My journey to mental healthcare

As a child, I did a lot of community work. That continued until my adulthood. Then I was going to be an interpreter for the deaf until I heard a social worker give a presentation, and that was it for me. I knew I wanted to be a clinical social worker.

My goals for you

I ask what they would like to accomplish as a goal in therapy. I make them aware they are in charge of their therapy and goals. We can set them together if they need guidance, but I leave that up to them. I want my client to feel empowered.

Our first session

Often people will ask or say I don't know what to tell you what you want to know. I tell them I go where you want, and it does not have to be in order; you can go where you need to in your story.

I identify as...

• Female
• Caucasian or White
• Spiritual, Non-denominational