Alona Perlin

I support clients using strengths-based and evidenced based treatment modalities. It is important to me that the client is an invested and active participant in his/her/their treatment. During my first session, I introduce myself and briefly explain the expectations of the treatment process. My explanation includes a review of the Informed consent as well as matters related to confidentiality and the limitations of confidentiality. Then, I inquire as to what brought the client into treatment. If a client is unsure of how to respond, I give prompts or ask questions which may lead them to explain their situation. I do not insist that they talk about anything they are uncomfortable with or answer any questions that they may not be ready to answer. It is extremely important to me that my clients feel comfortable, safe and share at their own pace. I am a firm believer in using Active Listening skills, mainly Reflection/validation, Clarification, Interpretation. I prioritize validation and normalization in my therapeutic process. It is the most useful method to make the client feel seen, heard and supported.

During the engagement process, I analyze the presentation of the client. I specifically look for key words/phrases the client uses as well as non-verbal communication cues. In my Assessment I ask about and observe key factors, such as family background, psychiatric history, medical and medication history, substance use issues, previously diagnosed mental health conditions, inpatient psychiatric treatment, self-injurious behavior and suicidal ideation and/or attempts. I view Assessment as an ongoing process and continue to continuously assess the client as the therapeutic process unfolds.

As I identify the presenting problem, I select the potential intervention models that the client may benefit from. My clinical intervention methods are subject to change based on the clients' needs. My preferred methods are Emotion-focused therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness/DBT and Psychoeducation. Often, my approach begins with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Emotion-focused therapy. I find that clients frequently feel misunderstood, unaccepted and shunned from the significant people in their lives. They may also feel intimidated with seeing a therapist and have concerns about being judged. Moreover, they are likely to feel excluded and rejected from certain events, communities and cultural groups. It is for that reason that it is important for me to make them feel accepted and recognized as productive citizens of the society. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy is an essential intervention for this purpose. Similarly, Emotion-Focused Therapy works on expanding on ACT's techniques in helping clients identify their emotions and validating their feelings.

I am also a strong proponent of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I fully believe that many challenging problems stem from patterns of negativistic/unrealistic thinking. I work with clients to observe these patterns of thinking and assisting in restructuring them. it is often useful to turn to Narrative Therapy if a client preserves negative messages from the present or the past. I encourage the client to write scripts containing a different, positive narrative. I also offer basic testing/Worksheets to help clients pinpoint their unique concerns.

I also feel that interventions should reflect the clients' diagnoses, symptoms and presenting problems. I base my interventions around these criteria as well. Therapy is a fluid process. It is not a "one-size fits all" formula. The minds and emotions of human beings are complex, and I strive to adapt to their changing needs. I feel fortunate that experience has allowed me to work with persons with diverse emotional/mental health issues. I have supported clients with relationship challenges (i.e. different relationship structures such as polyamory, open marriages, etc.), issues with self-harm (cutting, suicidal ideation), LGBTQIA concerns, Mood Disorders, persons with Anxiety, Grief and Trauma. I feel my education in both Columbia University and NYU adequately prepared me to meet these needs.