Hello, I'm Tahara DeBarrows, a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, and enhancing boundaries and relationships. My approach is person-centered, meaning I tailor therapy to meet your unique needs and empower you to achieve your personal goals. I am committed to creating a supportive and collaborative environment to help you navigate life's challenges and foster positive change.
My approach
My therapeutic approach is client-centered, focusing on creating a safe and empathetic environment where clients can explore their thoughts and feelings. I primarily utilize Motivational Interviewing (MI), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to guide my practice. MI helps clients resolve ambivalence and build motivation for change, while Solution-Focused Therapy emphasizes clients' strengths and future goals. CBT addresses negative thought patterns and behaviors, fostering healthier coping mechanisms and emotional regulation.
My focus
My client focus is inclusive and diverse, aiming to support a wide range of individuals. I typically work with clients from various backgrounds, including LGBTQ+ individuals and people of color (POC). I am comfortable addressing a variety of conditions, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. My approach is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where all clients feel valued and understood, tailoring my support to meet their unique needs and experiences.
My communication style
My communication style is friendly, approachable, and informative. I strive to create a warm and supportive environment where clients feel comfortable expressing themselves and exploring ideas. During our sessions, I blend empathy with a touch of humor and my own personality to keep things engaging and relatable. It feels like having a conversation with a knowledgeable friend who genuinely cares about your growth and well-being. I aim to make our interactions both productive and enjoyable, ensuring you feel heard and understood throughout our time together.
My journey to mental healthcare
As a child, I was just really into the idea of helping people out and seeing them grow stronger. That feeling stuck with me as I went through school and started diving into psychology and therapy. Learning how to listen well, really understand what's going on with someone, and then help them find their way through tough times became my mission. Seeing people change for the better, knowing I had a hand in that journey, that's what drives me to do this work.
My goals for you
When setting goals with clients, I typically start by understanding their long-term aspirations and then break these down into smaller, actionable objectives. We prioritize these based on importance and feasibility, ensuring they are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). Regular review and adjustments are crucial to ensure progress and maintain motivation toward achieving their desired outcomes.
My first session with you
During our first session, clients can expect a relaxed and informal atmosphere aimed at fostering comfort and openness. We'll start by getting to know each other and discussing your goals and what brought you here. I'll explain how I work and what you can expect from our sessions together. This initial meeting is also a chance for you to ask any questions you might have about the process. Together, we'll create a collaborative space where you feel heard and supported as we work towards your objectives.