Natalie W

My Favorite Quote

"Sharing how you feel and what's real for you may be scary...but every time you hold back truth, you make fear more important than love. That is why the depth of your ability to love will always be mirrored by your ability to be honest. It's really as simple as that.” — Mark Groves

Specialties

  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Trauma
  • Parenting
  • Behavioral Issues
  • ADHD

Get to Know Natalie W

Therapist | LCSW

I believe that therapy can be a crucial asset in supporting one’s overall health and well-being. I view the body as deeply interconnected and decided to pursue a career in therapy because of how therapy has supported me towards holistic wellness in my own life.

I approach my work from client-centered, strengths-based perspective. I seek to gain a thorough understanding about my clients’ lives so that we can work together as a team, building on their unique strengths to empower them in their lives. I strive to develop strong, trusting relationships with those I work with through cultivating a safe, nonjudgmental, and open environment. My hope is to provide clients with the space needed to process their emotions and experiences so that they not only meet their personal goals, but also lead healthier, happier lives.

My Professional Background

As a clinical social worker, I have worked in a variety of different settings in the greater Los Angeles area, including elementary, middle, and high schools, universities, government-contracted community mental health centers, and homeless services non-profit organizations. These opportunities have allowed me to work with a wide range of children, youth, adults, couples, and families, each with different presenting needs, cultural identities, and backgrounds. For the last few years, I worked as a Department of Mental Health outpatient therapist, where I received extensive training in evidence-based practices and gained strong clinical experience working with individuals dealing with severe mental health challenges.

Many of my elementary and high school clients dealt with depression, anxiety, low academic performance, and/or traumatic experiences, while my transition-aged youth, college, young adult, and adult clients presented with severe depression, suicide ideation and attempts, OCD, panic attacks, mood disorders, generalized anxiety, schizophrenia, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Education, Training, and Certifications

  • Bachelor of Arts, Psychology & Bachelor of Arts, Religious Studies – University of Virginia
  • Master of Social Work, Department of Children, Youth & Families – University of Southern California
  • Certified in Managing and Adapting Practice (MAP)
  • Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT
  • Structural Family Therapy (SFT)
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
  • Motivational Interviewing (MI)
  • Problem-Solving Therapy (PST)
  • Trauma-Informed Practice
  • Support to Students Exposed to Trauma (SSET)
  • Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT)

Fun Facts

I love staying active (running, hiking, dancing, HIIT workouts, yoga), spending time outside/in nature, big college football (Fight On!) and basketball (go hoos!), and baking. I am a big extrovert and super value strong community/friendships, so often fill of my free time with others.

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Schedule a Free Consultation

During the consultation you and one of our Clinical Coordinators will discuss why you’re interested in starting therapy or coaching, and review your goals. We can also answer any questions you may have about our services. Consultations are by secure video conferencing session, or by phone.