Demetria Agharese,Licensed Professional Counselor

Hi there, I'm Demetria! I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in the state of Michigan. I am passionate about counseling others through times of difficulty to find peace and resolutions. I work together in partnership with my clients to create counseling goals in alignment with the desired outcome the client is seeking.

My approach to the therapeutic environment is utilizing person-centered therapy. I meet clients where they are and assist individuals in achieving personal growth. The basic premise of person-centered therapy is that given a therapeutic environment, clients will move toward a positive change. I utilize techniques that encourage clients to find solutions to their problems that are consistent with their own beliefs about themselves and others. I incorporate techniques that would be beneficial to the client based on their specific needs. I often utilize cognitive behavioral therapy along with acceptance and commitment therapy as well. At times, I provide homework assignments, journaling exercises, and suggest books to complement therapy.

My expertise is working with adult clients who are looking to transform their lives for the better. I enjoy working with clients who are in need of healing or experience depression or anxiety. I believe my clients are equipped with resiliency and have the capacity within to overcome challenges. It is my honor to adhere to my life purpose of making a difference in the lives of others to invoke personal empowerment.

My communication style is a calm, caring, and empathetic tone. Clients feel comfortable opening up to me about anything because I have a non-judgemental nature about myself.

I became a licensed therapist because I felt a calling to be of service to others and help people navigate life challenges. I am passionate about seeing others reach their goals. I enjoy seeing clients experience a breakthrough in their lives. I received feedback from others often that I was a great listener, patient, empathetic, and possessed excellent problem-solving skills. I found that my personality type resonated with being a therapist so I pursued my dream.

I believe goal setting is an important element in the therapeutic relationship as it defines the growth the client desires. I start by building trust and rapport with my client to create a safe space and supportive environment. I take the time to actively listen to my client's issues and challenges. I work collaboratively with my clients to create a goal that is specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. Utilizing that framework ensures the goal is clear and reasonable to achieve for the client. We will have check-ins along the way to evaluate progress and adjust goals if needed.

The first counseling session is the time for us to create an initial client-therapist relationship. It is also time for us to discuss what brought you to counseling. I also would like to know what made you decide this was the right time for you to seek out counseling. This session together is a great opportunity for us to discuss what you hope to achieve out of therapy as well.