Mikaela Hoffman

I am a Mental Health Counseling Intern completing my final clinical requirements before graduating. Across my educational journey, I have gained professional experience as a crisis worker and as a crisis helpline counselor for the 988 National Suicide Hotline. My academic and professional journey has been shaped by a profound commitment to positively impacting the lives of those facing emotional challenges. In my work as a counseling intern, I am guided by a person-centered approach that places you, the client, at the forefront of our therapeutic journey. I believe in the inherent strength within each individual and the transformative power of a supportive, non-judgmental therapeutic relationship. My goal is to create a safe and empathetic space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to explore the depths of your thoughts and emotions. The person-centered approach forms the foundation of our work together. This means that I prioritize your unique experiences, values, and perspectives, recognizing that you are the expert in your own life. Through active listening and genuine empathy, I aim to foster a collaborative and trusting environment where we can work together to identify and navigate the challenges you may be facing. In addition to the person-centered framework, I integrate techniques from various therapeutic modalities to tailor our sessions to your specific needs and goals. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) allows us to explore the connections between your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, facilitating a deeper understanding of patterns that may be impacting your well-being. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) techniques offer practical skills for emotion regulation, interpersonal effectiveness, and distress tolerance, empowering you to manage life's complexities more effectively. Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) brings a forward-focused perspective to our sessions, emphasizing your strengths and identifying practical solutions to move you towards your desired outcomes. By drawing from a diverse range of therapeutic techniques, I aim to provide a holistic and personalized approach that addresses the multifaceted nature of your experiences. I am under the direct clinical supervision of Alaina Ellington, LMHC Mikaela Hoffman, Intern (heartlandcounselingia.com)