Hey, I’m Julia!

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker currently based in Miami, FL. I received my Master’s degree from Columbia University. I started my LCSW career working as a therapist in a Manhattan-based concierge outpatient treatment center, where my team and I launched an Intensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Curriculum and Mentorship Program. I moved to Florida in 2020 to work in leading clinical inpatient residential rehab centers for mental health and substance abuse. Before becoming a psychotherapist, I was a luxury real estate broker in New York City.

 FAQs

  • Deciding if therapy is right for you involves considering a few factors:

    1. **Emotional Struggles:** If you're dealing with persistent emotions like sadness, anxiety, anger, or stress that affect your daily life, therapy can help.

    2. **Life Transitions:** Major life changes, like a breakup, job loss, or a move, can lead to emotional challenges that therapy can support you through.

    3. **Unresolved Issues:** If you find yourself struggling with past experiences, trauma, or unresolved issues, therapy can provide a safe space to process and heal.

    4. **Relationship Concerns:** Relationship problems, whether with a partner, family member, or friend, can benefit from therapy's guidance.

    5. **Self-Improvement:** If you're interested in personal growth, self-awareness, and developing coping skills, therapy can facilitate that journey.

    6. **Lack of Coping Strategies:** If you feel overwhelmed by life's challenges and lack effective ways to cope, therapy can teach you new strategies.

    7. **Stagnation or Feeling Stuck:** If you're feeling stuck in a certain pattern or aspect of your life and don't know how to move forward, therapy can provide insights.

    8. **Difficulty Communicating:** If you struggle to express yourself, communicate needs, or set boundaries, therapy can help improve your communication skills.

    9. **Seeking Support:** If you're seeking a non-judgmental and confidential space to talk and gain perspective, therapy can offer that.

    Ultimately, the decision to seek therapy is personal. If you're unsure, an initial session with a therapist can help you explore whether therapy aligns with your needs and goals.

  • When seeing a therapist, you can anticipate a safe and confidential space to discuss your thoughts, emotions, and concerns. They'll likely listen actively, offer insights, and help you develop coping strategies. Expect an initial assessment, goal-setting, and regular sessions to work on your mental well-being. Keep in mind that building a strong therapeutic relationship takes time.

  • Selecting a therapist involves a few steps.

    -Identify Your Needs: Consider the specific issues you want to address, whether it’s anxiety, depression, relationship problems, etc.

    -Research: Look for therapists in your area or online. You can use directories like Psychology Today or ask for recommendations from friends, family, or medical professionals.

    -Check Credentials: Ensure the therapist is licensed or accredited in their field.

    -Initial Contact: Reach out to potential therapists to ask questions, discuss your needs, and see if you feel comfortable with them. I offer a free initial consultation.

    -Compatibility: Choose someone you feel you can connect with and trust. A good therapeutic relationship is essential for progress.

    -Book Trial Session: Schedule a couple of sessions with a therapist you’re interested in to see if it’s a good fit.

    Remember, finding the right therapist may take some time and experimentation. It’s important to feel comfortable and understood during your sessions.

  • The frequency of therapy sessions can vary based on your needs, goals, and the therapist's recommendation. Here are some general guidelines:

    1. **Weekly:** Many people start with weekly sessions, especially if they're dealing with acute issues or high levels of distress.

    2. **Bi-weekly:** As you make progress and feel more stable, you might transition to bi-weekly sessions.

    3. **Monthly:** Once you've achieved your primary goals and are maintaining progress, you could move to monthly sessions for check-ins and ongoing support.

    4. **As-Needed:** Some individuals choose to have sessions as needed, during particularly challenging times or when they feel they need extra support.

    It's important to discuss session frequency with your therapist. They can help determine the optimal schedule based on your progress and evolving needs. Regular sessions tend to be more effective in establishing and maintaining positive changes, but the frequency will ultimately depend on what works best for you.