About

I'm Christiane Swartz, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing telehealth counseling from the rural North Bay area of California. Are you feeling stuck or hopeless, and powerless to make change? It can be common to feel that way when facing grief, old and new trauma, loss, illness, depression, burnout, or other situations that get in the way of feeling whole. Whatever suffering brings you here, you have found a safe space to move toward healing. My approach My philosophy is strength-based, in that I believe people are experts on themselves and sometimes need support in uncovering needs and barriers to change. I am passionate about working with clients to put into words what is and isn’t working, identify their own strengths and what they do have control over, and build the skills they want to make choices that get them more of what they want. I draw from strength-based, acceptance and commitment, and cognitive behavioral therapy modalities. My focus I provide individual, couples, and family counseling to teens and young adults, men, women, veterans, and healthcare professionals. I have had good success in treating those struggling with depression, grief and loss, trauma, crisis, illness, burnout, homelessness, intimate partner violence, caregiving stress, aging, relationship challenges, and end-of-life issues. My communication style My clients tell me they feel listened to without judgment, and that the counseling process helps them find hope again. I will model and encourage assertive communication that is respectful, clear, open, and honest. My goal is that my clients can communicate with me authentically and without fear. I welcome and value humor along the way which can be healing and build rapport. My journey to therapy In 25 years of social work, through private practice, hospital, hospice, and VA social work, I continue to be amazed at the capacity and courage people have to grow and heal and to make change.