Therapist Profile

My Approach to Helping

"Sometimes... you need more that a friend...." -Cynthia A Henrie, MFT People who seek out therapy with me are usually looking for a therapist who will help their teen who is getting into trouble, women seeking support in a woman-centered, empowered experience, men and women who want to explore identity issues, phase of life problems, help with trauma-related or childhood abuse problems, anxiety, depression, sexual or gender identity concerns, and want a longer-term, very confidential approach to therapy. I usually work with clients anywhere from 3 months to several years, depending on the individual client's needs. The length of therapy usually depends on the level of trauma and intensity of childhood abuse. People who have survived one traumatic incident or who are dealing with a common phase of life problem will be in therapy for a few months. Clients who have more complex problems will require longer time in therapy. I offer a very warm, comfortable space to enable my clients to explore any issues you want to bring to your therapy. We form an alliance with one another and a relationship that enables you the opportunity to share your concerns, desires, hopes and dreams in a safe, warm, and accepting atmosphere. Because I have a lot of experience with all kinds of people and human issues, very little suprises or shocks me. I want my clients to feel they can go on a journey with me of self-exploration to gain an increased understanding of themselves, have a supportive place to discuss their concerns, and to have a therapist who will listen, ask questions that facillitate further thought and who helps you heal more painful issues and concerns. I use a variety of different therapeutic techniques to assist you in your journey. I use a variety of creative approaches such as different art techniques (I am not a registered art therapist), game play, sandplay therapy, different homework assignments aimed at helping you grow individually, etc. I use Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR) for trauma survivors and people who want to improve the quality of their life. Many people have self-defeating beliefs that interfere in their daily lives. Sometimes it interferes with achieving success, being happy with their lives that otherwise is a good experience, or interfere in being able to be more intimate with loved ones and friends. EMDR is highly effective for people who have survived a recent traumatic event, such as survivors of suicide/homicide, rape/sexual assault, victims of violent crimes, and people with histories of abusive childhoods. I also use this t echnique to help people with addictions. EMDR helps reduce your cravings for alcohol, cigarettes, food, sex, and other common "pain avoidance" items people use compulsively. It addresses the urge to use along with treating the original reasons a person began using a "pain avoider" in the first place. For alcoholics people who abuse marijuana I do require them to be involved in a twelve step program as well. As a Feminist Therapist, I focus on helping women with women's concerns. Incorporated into this therapy is exploring the impact of sexism on your experiences and struggles in life. We look at the problems caused by sexism and how to address these problems effectively. I offer a FREE initial consultation that will enable you to see if I am a good therapist for you!

More Info About My Practice

I want potential clients to know that I have a lot of experience (over 25 years) helping a wide variety of people and life issues. I started out working in homeless youth shelters in Hollywood California, have served communities all throughout Los Angeles, including Hollywood, Los Angeles, Central and South Los Angeles, Pasadena, South Pasadena, Glendale and La Canada. I help people who want just some additional support while going through a life transition, to people who are struggling with identity issues, mood problems, traumatic experiences and torture. My varied experiences help me understand human behavior and experiences in a unique way. I did not graduate from "Therapy School" and start a business. I served homeless communities and worked in residential treatment facilities for most of my career until I finally decided to enter into private practice in 2002. I always am seeking out new information and attend seminars and classes to continue to grow as a therapist to benefit the clients who seek me out on their life journey. I would love to meet with you to see if I am the right therapist to help you at this point in your journey. My motto is... "Sometimes... you need more that a friend..."