Hello, my name is Sharron Lewis and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have worked in the mental health field for 22 years. During this time my practice has evolved to include approaches that utilize mindfulness, self-compassion, and self-acceptance.
My approach
I like to begin therapy with some common language around attachment styles and personality. How we attach impacts every interpersonal relationship. I infuse our sessions with knowledge from Polyvagal theory and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction.
My focus
I have worked with a variety of clients in outpatient and inpatient settings. My clients typically seek therapy due to overwhelming life circumstances. They are experiencing depression, anxiety, and trauma. Most have difficulties in multiple life areas.
My communication style
I am on the gentle side of the therapist spectrum. I seldom use direct or confrontational tactics. I want to help you find the missing or distorted pieces in your story. My clients feel understood and heard. That is very important to me.
My journey to mental healthcare
I have been drawn to the mental health field since my undergraduate years. Circumstances required that I immediately enter the workforce after college. So it was 10 years before I enrolled in graduate school to receive my Master's in Social Work. The ten-year gap between undergraduate and graduate school was actually beneficial. I needed that time to ensure I was emotionally ready to be available for others and I treasure my work. Being a therapist is very gratifying.
My goals for you
Goal setting is driven by my clients. My input will center around clarifying goals and possibly a little tweak if I sense that there are steps to complete first.
My first session with you
I like to start with what brought you to therapy. What was it that you said to yourself that informed you that therapy is needed now? We will talk about relevant family history, with particular attention to those early messages which turn into important vows we make to ourselves. Vows that initially protect us but ultimately imprison us.