My name is Sherrie Kleinholz and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor-Supervisor. My approach to therapy is supportive, reflective, and eclectic using evidence-based practices.
My approach
When we work together, YOU are the focus of therapy! I find that one of my gifts as a therapist is the ability to "hear" the unspoken of what clients are trying to express or say or maybe too nervous to say out loud. That gives us the ability to pause in session and safely explore these thoughts/feelings in more depth. I am person-centered and mostly utilize CBT, Gestalt, Mindfulness, and processing in therapy. I have broken down how each of these may be beneficial in therapy. CBT: Helps to recognize cognitive distortions that we developed as emotional safety nets. We explore why these distortions may have entered our lives and then work on new thinking patterns. Gestalt: This is one way that we begin to explore unexpressed emotions/thoughts/feelings. This is done in such a way that I find it reaches deep into our minds and brings to the surface some things that have been hurting us for a long time. Once they are brought to the surface we can work through them in various ways. Mindfulness: Don't confuse mindfulness with meditation! Although meditation can be a mindful practice, it is far from being "Mindfulness". We use mindfulness to manage emotions, stay in tune with our bodies and minds as well as slow down our fast-paced thoughts. With all of these tools, we are setting therapy up for success! Of course, you always have autonomy in treatment and if you don't click with a certain approach, we find a different approach! Additionally, I offer Christian-based therapy approaches if that is something you so choose to utilize!
My focus
I work with clients that are 18+ years old. I work a great deal with anxiety, depression, PTSD, life transitions, aging, and caregiver burnout. I do not treat eating disorders, couples (via telehealth), or active addiction (via telehealth).
My communication style
When we work together, you can expect to come to session knowing that you are supported, honored, appreciated, and respected! I work hard to create an environment that you trust, feel comfortable sharing your experiences, and feel safe. I use open and honest communication and make sure my clients know that they are encouraged to also do the same.
My journey to mental healthcare
I was drawn to being a therapist even when I was a tiny little girl. I would go around with a notebook and pen and ask people "How are you feeling today?" or "Do you have anything you want to talk about?". My friends and family just knew I was going to be some type of therapist when I grew up and I did!
My goals for you
I encourage my clients to always bring a "therapy journal" to each session. This allows you to keep track of your sessions (what you discovered in therapy today, what you want to talk about next time, your goals, etc...)
My first session with you
On your first session, we will go through your history up to this point as well as what you are looking for in therapy. The first session is certainly important because it lays the foundation for therapy overall. Yes, there are a lot of questions but they definitely help to get to know you more in depth!