Aloha, my name is Kimberly Allen. I am a licensed clinical social worker who is passionate about providing affirming care to support clients through challenges and achieve optimal well-being.
My approach
My approach is client-centered, with an emphasis on utilizing evidence-based practices such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT, Parent-Child Care (PC-CARE), and Managing and Adapting Practice/Modular Approach to Therapy for Children with Anxiety, Depression Trauma, or Conduct Problems (MAP/MATCH).
My focus
I work primarily with youth and families (multi-generational), many of whom are struggling with grief, loss, anxiety, depression, trauma, and/or acceptance of LGBTQ+ identities, among other issues.
My communication style
My goal is to create an environment of predictability and trust in order to allow clients to focus on achieving their goals in a caring setting.
My journey to mental healthcare
I have always been interested in different people's experiences of the world and how they navigate challenges in their lives. My initial career as a social worker focused more on advocacy, and in the past few years, I have appreciated the opportunity to balance advocacy work with direct practice, delving into how the system work and individual work impact each other.
My goals for you
Based on client strengths and needs, I like to brainstorm and select goals with clients in the beginning, as part of the rapport-building process, then revisit goals to determine if they are met, need to be changed, or others need to be added throughout treatment as we track progress.
My first session with you
The first session is mostly focused on getting to know each other, establishing expectations, identifying primary issues bringing them to therapy, and beginning a discussion of goals.