About

Hello, my name is Shawn Polivoi, a therapist licensed in California as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) residing in Northern California. My approach to therapy is to meet people where they are at with the goal of helping them where they want to be. I have expertise and comfort working with all age groups, most recently having worked with adults and the elder population. I am experienced in working with people struggling with anxiety, depression, and trauma. My approach While versed and experienced in a number of therapeutic approaches, I'd best describe my style as Eclectic and person-centered. In general, I utilize cognitive and behavioral approaches to help identify difficult emotions which may lead to ineffective behaviors; recognizing these behaviors serve (or served) a purpose. Understanding that, we'd then work together to identify new behaviors that help achieve the goals you'd want. Throughout, we'll test different approaches until we find one that works. My focus I am quite comfortable sitting with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, and trauma experiences. Inherently, the emotions and thoughts connected are valuable and important. In my work with clients, the goal is to help identify sources of these emotions, accept them, and develop helpful thought patterns so as not to feel stuck. I appreciate and enjoy working with clients of all age ranges and backgrounds. My communication style When working with me, you can expect to find me to be calm and a good listener. You'll notice that if we are venturing to an area that I notice is troubling for you, you might hear me check in to understand how you are feeling, emotionally and physically. This will be to help you and I recognize triggers and cues we can reference later on in conversations. You'll also find me to be curious and non-judgmental. I learned long ago that none of us is perfect; we all have room for growth. I really enjoy and appreciate hearing how different people view the world.