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Hi! My name is Catherine Medina, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing in Virginia. My goal is to assist people in living their most fulfilling life by resolving the issues that stand in their way. I have extensive clinical training and experience, and I am excited to make a positive difference in your life!
My approach
I use a combination of different approaches based on the unique needs of every client. My primary approaches are trauma-focused, attachment-based, and psychodynamic. I believe most of our struggles may be rooted deeper than we think, and I strive to identify and resolve the root cause of what's causing difficulty for a client so they can live their best life now and in the future.
My focus
I primarily work with adults and couples. I have extensive experience with adults of all ages and with newlyweds as well as people in long-term relationships. My experience is primarily in treating mood, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, and relationship issues.
My communication style
I am a very down to earth person and think that laughter is part of excellent treatment. I approach people with a very open, supportive, and direct approach. My primary goal is that each client feels as comfortable and safe as possible, so they can accomplish what they feel is important to them.
My journey to mental healthcare
I have always been interested in resilience and what lies underneath our behaviors and choices. I think humans are complex and simple at the same time. I believe we all have some fundamental needs, and I want to help people meet their needs in the most adaptive way so they can be successful, happy, and meet their personal goals. I love seeing someone do something they didn't think they could do before we began working together and seeing a person smile and laugh!
My goals for you
I always end the first session by asking clients what they would like to focus on and what they would like to achieve through therapy. I may make suggestions based on my assessment, but my focus is on meeting the goals and needs of each unique client based on their assessment of their lives. Goals don't need to be long and complicated, I use them as a direction towards which we can start our work together.
My first session with you
In my initial sessions, I want to hear what brings a client to therapy, what is foremost on their mind. I like to sit back and listen, then ask questions to clarify things in order to get a clearer picture. I want to get to know the person and make sure they feel comfortable, answer any questions, and make sure we have identified their unique goals. Then we can agree on a plan for moving forward, whatever best meets the client's needs and circumstances.
