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Hi there! My name is Shari Balbien and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) based in Southern California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with children as young as five years of age, adolescents, families, and couples struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, as well as issues related to trauma, self-esteem, and grief.
My approach
My approach to therapy is tailored to meet the needs of each individual client I work with as I am client-centered first and foremost. I most frequently implement Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems, and Trauma Informed Therapy as my clients and I build a strong relationship, identify the presenting problem, and collaborate to create an effective treatment plan.
My focus
I have found that my style and approach are a good match for young children, families, and couples, who may be dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, and communication issues. I work to help my clients experience a measurable reduction in intrusive symptoms, improve communication skills, and move towards a more satisfying and fulfilling life.
My communication style
I believe my communication style is best described as gentle and personable. I strive to help my clients express themselves in a space that feels safe, validating, and free of judgment. In order for clients to realize the most benefit from therapy, he or she must feel comfortable to disclose their innermost thoughts and feelings within the therapeutic space.
My journey to therapy
I derive great personal satisfaction and joy in helping individuals become the best versions of themselves. I was drawn to pursue a career as a therapist out of a lifelong passion for helping other people as well as the community whether it be as a peer counselor, volunteer, or trusted confidant.
My goals for you
My approach to goal setting with clients is rooted in collaboration as we work together to define what you want to accomplish during our time together and create a roadmap with measurable steps to best help get you there. The first step is often to build trust between us and find comfort in what it means to be in therapy. As we move forward, we will work together to identify reasonable goals and track progress.
My first session with you
The first session is a great opportunity to begin building a positive relationship and identifying how you as the client have been feeling recently, defining the primary issue that has brought you into therapy at this time in your life, and what you are hoping to gain from therapy. I will listen and ask questions to build a greater understanding of where we should begin in this process of working together toward your healing.
