My Values as a Therapist

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When I opened my private therapy practice in Sacramento in 2017, I realized I needed to identify my values as a therapist. I thought about what qualities are most important to develop in the process of trauma and anxiety treatment. I am passionate about helping my clients cultivate mindfulness, intuition, authenticity, connection, and empowerment. These values are my guideposts in the journey of healing.

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Mindfulness is a buzzword these days, and for good reason. With all the distractions that abound (hello smartphones!) it’s something we need now more than ever.

So what exactly is mindfulness? It’s simply focusing your attention on the present moment and observing your mind, your body, and your surroundings.

When we’re constantly mentally reliving the disappointments of the past or worrying about all the ways things could go wrong in the future, we cause ourselves unnecessary suffering. Mindfulness is the antidote to anxiety.

I teach my therapy clients techniques to stay grounded in the here and now, because your life only truly exists in this moment.

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When you are mindful, amid the quiet and stillness you may notice a calm, wise voice within. This is the voice of your intuition.

It may tell you that you’re not living the life that’s meant for you—that it’s time to change careers or end a relationship. Or that you’re finally ready to start healing your trauma.

Messages from your intuition can feel scary, because change can feel scary, and you may try to rationalize them away.

If your life looks good on paper but you still feel like something’s missing, it’s probably because you’re not following your intuition.

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By following the inner guidance of your intuition, you begin to come home to yourself.

You’ve heard it a million times – “Just be yourself.” It may sound like trite advice but the alternative has serious consequences.

According to author and former palliative care nurse Bronnie Ware, the number one regret of the dying is that they lived the life others expected of them, instead of living a life true to themselves.

When we’re ruled by anxiety and trauma, it can feel too risky to share your authentic self. So how do you begin to live an authentic life?

I believe that authenticity is a potent combination of vulnerability and embracing imperfection. It involves taking the risk of expressing your true feelings.

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The magical thing about authenticity is that it bonds you to people. When others see you living your truth, it gives them permission—better yet, inspiration—to do the same.

Humans are social creatures by nature and our brains are wired to form meaningful connections with others. Thousands of years ago, our survival was dependent on the ‘safety in numbers’ of our tribe.

Today, isolation may not threaten your physical safety, but it negatively impacts your emotional well-being.

I guide my therapy clients to form healthier relationships so that instead of just getting by, they can truly thrive.

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Having built a solid foundation of mindfulness, intuition, authenticity, and connection, my ultimate goal for my clients is for them to leave therapy feeling empowered.

I take a strengths-based approach to treatment and I believe it’s just as important to look at what’s going right in your life as it is to examine the areas you want to improve.

By focusing on your strengths, you can become more resilient and cultivate a sense of confidence that translates to every facet of your life.

My favorite thing about being a therapist is helping people uncover their gifts and see themselves in a new light.

Do my values align with yours? If so, let's connect!

Are you looking for a trauma or anxiety therapist in Sacramento? Find out if I'm the right guide for your journey by calling 916.432.2300 or using my online scheduler to book your free 15-minute phone consultation.

Alyssa Walls

I’m a therapist in Sacramento, CA who specializes in treating anxiety and trauma. I love to write about self-care, self-worth, setting boundaries, and healing from codependency, people pleasing, and perfectionism.

This blog is my space to share free mental health resources with the community in Sacramento and beyond. I share the things my clients have found most helpful—personal stories, examples, and practical, actionable tips for how to do the work of healing in your daily life.