Beatrice Paksa (she/her)

My interest in supporting individuals with suicidal thoughts is driven by a deep commitment to understanding and alleviating intense mental distress. In my training, I've focused on crisis intervention and empathetic listening. I aim to offer a safe, compassionate space where clients can openly discuss their thoughts without judgment. My approach is to gently guide clients towards finding hope and resilience, using strategies that foster a sense of personal strength and renewed outlook on life.

My interest in anxiety disorders stems from their varied and profound impact on individuals' lives. During my MSSW studies, I have learned about different types of anxiety, including GAD, social anxiety, panic disorders, and phobias. My goal is to create a supportive environment where clients can explore their anxiety, gain insights into its triggers, and develop effective coping mechanisms.

As an intern with a keen interest in eating disorders, I'm deeply attuned to the complexities of body image issues. My educational background in psychology and social work has provided me with a foundational understanding of how body image can impact mental health. I'm committed to supporting clients in exploring and improving their relationship with their body, using a compassionate and strengths-based approach that empowers individuals to develop a healthier self-image and overall well-being.

I appreciate DBT for its comprehensive and skillful approach to managing intense emotions and improving relationships. DBT's emphasis on balancing acceptance and change resonates with me. I value its practical skill sets — mindfulness, emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness — as they equip clients with tangible tools to navigate life's challenges. DBT's structured framework supports clients in building resilience and achieving emotional stability.

I am drawn to Mindfulness-based Therapy and Positive Psychology for their focus on cultivating present-moment awareness and emphasizing individual strengths. These approaches resonate with my therapeutic style, as they encourage clients to embrace mindfulness practices, enhancing self-awareness and emotional regulation. Positive Psychology's emphasis on harnessing personal strengths and fostering well-being aligns with my goal to empower clients to realize their potential.

I am clinically trained in Motivational Interviewing (MI) and have completed academic coursework in this method. I have also applied it in practice, particularly in substance use assessments. MI's client-centered approach aligns with my belief in empowering individuals to discover and harness their intrinsic motivation for change. My experience with MI allows me to skillfully navigate conversations, helping clients explore and resolve ambivalence, and encouraging a shift towards positive change.