Holistic Jungian therapist specializing in trauma and relationships
I was born in Dallas and I have lived in several urban cities including: New Orleans, LA; Washington, D.C.; Jersey City, NJ; and New York City. I received my Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from Howard University. I am particularly sensitive to the challenges of children and adults with mental health and challenges, including domestic/family violence and child abuse. I have over 15-years experience as a therapist.
Contemplating counseling for the first time can be a scary decision. Many people have no idea what to expect. The counseling process requires developing a trustworthy relationship between the therapist and the client; and it is the therapist’s responsibility to develop and cultivate that relationship. As a therapist, it is my responsibility to unconditionally accept you as you are, which includes not being judgmental. Thus, creating a safe and nurturing counseling relationship.
As human beings, our experiences are unique to us. We experience and view the world from our lens, which impacts how we perceive ourselves and others. Unfortunately, because we are all unique, people around us also develop perceptions about us which may not be an accurate representation of who we are or our true intentions. Sometimes, our perceptions lead to miscommunication and misconceptions; thereby impacting our ability to connect and develop healthy relationships. Typically, perceptions are based on our experiences and our experiences are not always favorable or pleasant. Occasionally, our experiences are traumatic and abusive. For some, trauma and abuse occur so regularly that it becomes the norm and ultimately impacts social, interpersonal, and intimate relationships.
Counseling is the process of becoming awakened to our true selves to better understand how our personal experiences influence who we are. Our personal experiences are impacted by our family of origin, racial and cultural/ethnic group, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, etc. Because many aspects of one’s life may be explored, including childhood experiences, the process of counseling may feel uncomfortable and intrusive, at times. However, it is important to trust the process and know that every counseling session will not feel good. There are times that as a client, you may feel sad or hurt and become tearful; you may be excited and feel happy; you may be confused and feel hopeless. However, know that in the end, if you trust the process, you will hopefully learn something new about yourself that you never considered. Thus, leading to fulfillment in your life in areas including your relationships and family dynamics that ultimately, enhance your self-worth.
Licensed · Professional · Cancel Anytime
Dr. Stephanie McVea grew up in Dallas and has lived in several major urban centers, including New Orleans, LA; Washington, D.C.; Jersey City, NJ; and New York City. She earned a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from Howard University and brings nineteen years of clinical experience to her work with individuals and families.
She is licensed in California as a professional clinical counselor, which reflects her training and qualification to provide mental health care. Dr. McVea is particularly attuned to the needs of children and adults who face mental health challenges, including those affected by domestic and family violence as well as child abuse.
Beginning therapy can feel intimidating, and she recognizes the importance of a dependable therapeutic relationship. Dr. McVea emphasizes the therapist’s role in creating a safe, nonjudgmental space and approaches each person with unconditional acceptance to foster a nurturing counseling alliance.
She views each person through the lens of their unique life experiences and believes those experiences shape how people see themselves and relate to others. Misunderstandings and miscommunication often arise from differing perceptions, and painful or traumatic events can become normalized in ways that harm social, interpersonal, and intimate relationships.
For Dr. McVea, counseling is a process of helping people become more aware of their authentic selves and of how upbringing, family of origin, cultural and ethnic background, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic circumstances have influenced their lives. Because therapy may involve revisiting difficult memories, sessions can sometimes feel uncomfortable or intrusive, and a range of emotions is to be expected.
Clients may feel sadness, relief, confusion, hope, or moments of joy as they work through issues. Dr. McVea asks clients to trust the therapeutic process, with the goal that increased self-understanding will lead to healthier relationships, improved family dynamics, and greater self-worth.
Many people ask whether online therapy can really help. For common concerns such as stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or navigating life changes, research and clinical experience indicate that online therapy can be as effective as traditional in-person sessions.
One major benefit is flexibility. People can meet with a therapist in the format that suits them best – video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or in-app messaging – which can make it easier to integrate therapy into a busy schedule.
Licensed professionals deliver care through these options, and if someone feels a different match would be better, it is possible to switch therapists at any time. For many, online therapy offers a practical and effective way to address everyday mental health needs and relationship concerns.
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