Justine Adams

My name is Justine Adams, LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker). My approach to therapy is to meet clients where they are at and accept them for who they are. I utilize a strengths-based approach meaning that we are going to use your strengths and skills to create healthy changes and we are going to celebrate all progress and growth along the way. I want those I work with to feel comfortable to be 100% themselves so we can get down into the real issues and room for movement towards the mental space and life you want. All are welcome here.

My approach

Along with a strengths-based approach, I am also familiar with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) techniques. I find that depending on what we are working on, we often use a mixture of approaches!

My focus

I work with teens and adults who need a space they can feel comfortable to be themselves while they process and learn to cope. I am experienced in assisting folks with mental health challenges including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and ADHD; as well as those who have experienced trauma and hardship. Whether you identify within the LGBTQIA2S+ umbrella, as gender-nonconforming, neurodiverse, or engage in alternative lifestyle or relationship types, I want you to have access to therapy without fear.

My communication style

My goal is for everyone to drop the mask while in therapy and be honest. I communicate with you the way that I communicate with people in my own support circle: I am gentle but also able to be direct and challenge you when necessary for perspective and growth. I'm not afraid to use humor in therapy when appropriate! I save the jargon for textbooks and aim to use language that everyone can understand and apply.

My journey to therapy

A combination of experiences led me to not only be a therapist but to open my own practice: As someone who has had several of my own therapists and have worked with hundreds of folks who have experience in therapy, I have heard and felt frustration and hopelessness regarding finding a therapist who we can not only feel comfortable talking to but they also feel accepted and respected by; a therapist who we can problem-solve with rather than being told what they "should" do; a therapist who can see each person as a whole rather than fixating on only parts they feel inclined to talk about; a therapist who is open to changing techniques or approaches based on what is comfortable for that person. I strive to be a therapist who can fit these needs and provide a space that is professional but with a lot more flavor!

My goals for you

Break. It. Down. We are often overwhelmed or attempting to work within old frameworks. I often assist others in breaking down tasks into realistic and bite-sized steps that we can celebrate accomplishing along the way. Didn't complete what you wanted to? We will then work on dealing with barriers and making an adjusted plan for success.

My first session with you

I want clients to know that these are YOUR sessions. Although I can help you understand the purposes of therapy and can educate on skills and techniques, it is your space to vent, process, ask for feedback, etc. You know you better than I know you so we will work together to find a process that you find helpful and fulfilling. We can get to know each other, you can ask questions, you can jump into current issues, there is no wrong way!