Vanessa Broughton

I view therapy as a collaborative approach, thus my goal is to accompany clients as they journey towards the achievement of their goals. Treatment begins with a thorough assessment that emphasizes the client's supports, strengths and abilities as resources for goal achievement.

During the treatment planning process, I assist clients with identifying specific and achievable objectives; assessing and revising these goals when appropriate; using achievements as motivation for continued change, identifying and resolving barriers to goal achievement, and remaining nonjudgmental when goals are not achieved. I have found that this approach coupled with validation, understanding and empathy creates a sense of safety which enhances the therapeutic relationship.

I have worked in the mental health field, with various populations and in various settings, most of my adult life. My primary clinical approach couples cognitive behavioral therapy with acceptance and commitment therapy and mindfulness based practices. These evidenced based approaches help to increase one's awareness of maladaptive thoughts and its impact on emotional reactions and behavioral responses. This information is used to educate clients on how to identify unhelpful thoughts and effectively manage corresponding emotions and behaviors.