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Hello, I'm Gail York and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Southern California & working with clients statewide doing Telehealth. I have over 27 years of experience in the field of Mental Health and Counseling. I am also a Board Certified Diplomat in Clinical Social Work (BCD) & Clinically Certified Forensic Counselor (CCFC).
My approach
My approach to therapy is client centered. I firmly believe that empathy, positive support and a non-judgmental approach are essential to providing psychotherapy. My theoretical approach is often Cognitive Behavioral, however my approach is dependent on what will best serve my client based on my assessment and their input. This may be Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing or Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, or Trauma Work.
My focus
I see people from all walks of life, with a variety of issues. Their issues may range from stress, anxiety or depression related to everyday life, to living and dealing with severe mental illnesses such as Schizophrenia or Bipolar Disorder. I also work with victims of crime, domestic violence and individuals who have a history of childhood sexual abuse or have been sexually assaulted or raped as an adult.
My communication style
I strive to create a comfortable and supportive environment for my clients. I am not pretentious, I meet my clients where they are comfortable emotionally and once I've established rapport and trust with a client, when appropriate, I utilize humor to keep things from getting too overwhelming in a given session. I have received positive feedback from my clients about me, just being me, a person who wants to help people.
My journey to mental healthcare
As far back as I can remember I have always had the desire to help people. My personal experiences as a child growing up and later as an adult crystalized this desire. Being a part of someone's growth and/or healing is hard work and often emotional, but ultimately it is a joyous experience.
My goals for you
The treatment objectives and goals for treatment are discussed with my clients and must be mutually agreed upon. Therapy is not about me telling a client what they should or should not do. Generally, therapy is about assisting a client meet their full potential as an individual.
My first session with you
Our first session together isn't just about doing my assessment and gathering history from you. Our first session together is also about you, as my client, asking me questions about my education and experience and telling me what you want to work on and hope to accomplish by coming to therapy. During this process we will start to build rapport and begin to establish trust so that you, as my client, can be comfortable working with me.
