Hi! I am Sharona Baker, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. My area of focus is You! My approach is attentive and supportive.
My approach
My clinical approach is eclectic and utilizes techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Brief Solution-Focused, and Family Systems.
My focus
Are you feeling stuck or derailed? Are you having a hard time sorting things out? Struggling with decision-making? Experiencing periods of low motivation or interest in activities once found enjoyable? Finding yourself repeating unhealthy patterns in your relationships? Blaming yourself for situations that were outside the span of your control? If you answered yes to any of these questions and are ready to do something about it, then I am here to work with you. I have over twenty (20) years of combined experience in public and social services, with the last ten (10) years dedicated to mental health and wellness.
My communication style
Collaborative Connections Counseling Solutions’ therapeutic approach is rooted in the belief that successful outcomes in counseling are achieved from the unique relationship established between the clinician and the client. That relationship, also known as the therapeutic alliance, is the healthy emotional bond developed and utilized to help meet your goals.
My journey to mental healthcare
I have always had a strong desire to help others. I have always been an advocate. Those inherent qualities or characteristics are what attracted me to this profession. Since I entered the workforce, I was always in the helping profession, whether in hospitality or public service. However, it was my own personal experience and relationship with counseling that shifted the trajectory of both my personal and professional path, and I have not looked back since. I am a true change agent and believe wholeheartedly in the practice. It is my absolute passion to assist you with living as your true, authentic self. I will work collaboratively with you to achieve a level of acceptance and functionality that promotes self-efficacy.
My goals for you
Goals are determined based on the client's presenting concerns, its impact on their daily functioning, and their desired outcome.
My first session with you
During the initial session, the client should expect an opportunity to build a therapeutic alliance. The conversation will be target-driven yet light in tone. It will be exploratory, with me asking a series of questions surrounding your reason for visiting, which may include reviewing questions from your intake packet. This will assist with goal setting as well as rapport building. During the initial session, we will review the informed consent and reinforce what sessions will look like in terms of theoretical approach and time. We will also review cancellations and no-shows and any costs assessed. Lastly and most importantly, the initial session will be the client's opportunity to ask any questions or present any concerns they may have.