Kimberly van velzen

APPROACH My approach to therapy is a holistic one. My style is empathetic and direct. I look at the whole person as well as the two individuals that choose to be in partnership with one another. I am supportive and active in the therapeutic relationship. I will honor your decision and commitment toward change by creating and holding a space where meaningful growth can be made. I work with each person to learn about their personal reasons, expectations, fears, and anxieties related to the therapeutic process. I am driven to help support, and at times guide, people through the process of self-discovery, self-improvement, and processing life events. PRACTICE “Rather than particular techniques, the far greater predictors of positive outcomes are therapeutic relationships, or counselor qualities in therapeutic relationships that capitalize on clients’ internal strengths.” Cochran and Cochran, 2015, p. 7 I work by creating an environment that is calm, comfortable, inviting, and non-judgemental. I offer counseling in a private practice Telehealth setting for couples and individuals. COUPLES COUNSELING “Once you understand this, you will be ready to accept one of the most surprising truths about marriage: Most marital arguments cannot be resolved. Couples spend year after year trying to change each other’s mind—but it can’t be done. This is because most of their disagreements are rooted in fundamental differences of lifestyle, personality, or values. By fighting over these differences, all they succeed in doing is wasting their time and harming their marriage.” ― John M. Gottman, The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work I am highly trained in offering sessions for couple’s therapy. During our sessions I offer researched based insights through the Gottman Method Couples Therapy approach. During our sessions there is a detailed and thorough assessment and treatment planning process that occurs over three sessions. This is often an overlooked and undervalued process when working with couples. However, it is crucial to have a well informed knowledge base of where each person and the couple is beginning from in order to know how to plan for the path going forward. TREATMENT METHODS Each person is different and thus one single approach will not work for everyone. In addition to Gottman Method Couple Therapy, I and draw from various well respected counseling theories to guide to your stated goals. I have strengths in guiding people utilizing Solutions Focused, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Humanistic, and Motivational Interviewing, Holistic, Mindfulness- Based, Solution Focused, and Supportive techniques. EDUCATION It is a privilege to have been working with couples, families, and individuals ( children, teenagers, transitional aged youth and adults) for more than 25 years. Master of Science in Counseling Options: Marriage and Family Therapy (2003) Associate in Science (AS) - Los Angeles Mission College (2001) Bachelor of Arts with a major in Sociology with a specification of Counseling and Interviewing (1999) Qualifications *Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the state of California MFC 45584. *Chemical Dependency Specialist (CDS). * Member of the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy. Specialty Training I have completed Clinical Training Level 1, Level 2, Level 3, Treating Affairs and Trauma and Couple and Addiction Recovery in the Clinical Foundations in Gottman Method Couple Therapy series certified through The Gottman Institute. PAYMENT and INSURANCE In order for me to provide you with the best quality, client focused care I do not accept insurance. While some current mental health platforms help with treatment accessibility, the providers and clients are still required to “fit” within the insurance payor framework of diagnoses and timeframes. I am considered an "out of network" provider when utilizing PPO insurance plans. Payment is due at the time of service. I will provide a Superbill for reimbursement.