Heather O'Malley

Hi, my name is Heather O'Malley. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I am deeply committed to helping individuals navigate life's challenges with empathy and compassion. My passion lies in providing a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to heal and grow, and I am dedicated to promoting social justice as part of my practice.

My approach

My approach to therapy is client-centered and strengths-based, focusing on the unique needs and goals of each individual. I believe in empowering my clients by recognizing and building upon their inherent strengths. To support this process, I utilize a variety of therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based practices.

My focus

With a focus on understanding each person's unique experiences, I aim to empower my clients to find their own solutions and build resilience. Whether you are facing personal struggles, relationship issues, or the impacts of social inequities, I am here to support you on your journey toward wellness and fulfillment.

My communication style

In my practice, I prioritize creating a warm and empathetic environment where clients feel safe to explore their thoughts and feelings. My communication style is collaborative, emphasizing active listening and open dialogue. I aim to ensure that clients feel truly heard and understood, fostering a non-judgmental space where they can freely express themselves. This approach helps to build trust and encourages clients to engage fully in the therapeutic process, empowering them to work through challenges and achieve their goals.

My journey to mental healthcare

My journey to becoming a therapist has been deeply personal and rooted in my own lived experiences. From an early age, I felt a strong desire to help others, particularly those who were struggling with challenges that felt all too familiar to me. These experiences shaped my understanding of the complexities of life and fueled my passion for supporting others through their difficulties. As I navigated my own path, I became increasingly aware of the importance of empathy, understanding, and the transformative power of a supportive relationship. This awareness inspired me to pursue a career in social work, where I could combine my passion for helping others with professional skills and knowledge. Through my education and training, I have developed a deep appreciation for the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of creating a safe and empowering space for clients. My own journey has made me acutely aware of the challenges that people face, and it drives me to be a compassionate and dedicated therapist who is committed to helping others find their way to healing and growth.

My goals for you

Each treatment plan is carefully tailored to fit the specific needs of my clients, ensuring that the therapy process is both effective and meaningful. By creating a collaborative and supportive environment, I strive to help clients develop the skills and insights necessary to overcome challenges and achieve lasting positive change.

My first session with you

In a first session with me, clients can expect a welcoming and supportive environment where they can feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and concerns. We will begin by discussing what brought them to therapy and what they hope to achieve from our work together. This session is an opportunity for me to get to know them, understand their background, and explore any challenges they are facing. I will take the time to explain my therapeutic approach, including how I incorporate client-centered, strengths-based methods along with techniques from CBT and DBT. We’ll also discuss confidentiality and any other questions they may have about the therapy process. The first session is about building a foundation of trust and collaboration. My goal is to ensure clients feel heard, respected, and supported as we start our journey together. By the end of the session, clients should have a clearer understanding of the therapy process and feel confident in the path forward.