Hi, I'm Ann, and I believe that every individual has the resiliency to heal and thrive. Together, we will harness those inner resources to bring positive changes into your life, creating the shift from surviving to thriving!
Having gone through my own journey of self-discovery and healing, I understand that life can feel overwhelming at times, and navigating through its challenges can be tough. Having support and guidance on your journey, motivates and empowers you to make the changes you seek. I'm here to offer you a safe and compassionate space where you can freely explore your inner landscape without judgment and identify ways to move forward.
As a clinical social worker and NYU graduate with years of experience working with teens, young adults, adults and families, my primary focus is empowering you to overcome obstacles in your life and challenges related to anxiety, depression and trauma, while deepening your connection with self and others.
Whether you're struggling with overwhelm, a life transition, feeling unsupported or finding it difficult to navigate and cope with emotions or mental health symptoms, I can help you recenter and keep moving along your path. Using evidenced-based practices, mindfulness techniques and a holistic approach, we can restore the balance within which gets reflected in your outer world.
I am also passionate about providing integration support for those exploring plant medicines and psychedelic assisted treatment. Having spent two years learning from tribes/lineages in Peru, Brazil and Costa Rica, I bring a combination of traditional and experiential education to our work together. I will help you unravel your experiences and find ways to incorporate the lessons learned into every day life, for lasting meaningful change.
After your first session with me, you can expect to feel a sense of relief and validation. We'll begin by discussing your concerns, your goals, and exploring different areas of your life, pertinent history and the dynamics of your relationships. I'll create a safe space for you to openly express yourself, and together, we'll lay the foundation for our journey ahead.
My approach to therapy is both eclectic and psychodynamic, recognizing that everyone has unique needs and is influenced by their past experiences. I'm trauma-informed, creating a nurturing container where you feel held to address past wounds and promote healing. Together, we'll work to identify the root cause of the issues at hand and leverage your strengths and resiliency to identify solutions that move you forward. Methods like CBT to reshape negative thought patterns and Emotion-Focused Therapy to explore & process feelings are often combined with mindfulness practices and creative expression techniques. We may use journaling for reflection or engage in role-playing to explore different perspectives. Tapping, known as Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), voice toning and muscle testing are tools used to release emotional energetic blocks.
My ultimate goal is to empower you to cultivate a deeper understanding of yourself and equip you with the tools needed to navigate the ebbs & flows of life while maintaining a state of wellbeing.
Whether you're struggling with a specific issue or looking to make a change in your life, I am here to support you every step of the way.
Additional areas of focus: Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Grief, Self esteem, Compassion fatigue, ADHD, Communication problems, Divorce and separation, Forgiveness, Isolation / loneliness, Life purpose, Post-traumatic stress, Self-love, Young Adult Issues
Clinical approaches: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT), Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Psychodynamic Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy
NJ LCSW 44sc05743200
These quotes represent just a few of the many positive reviews that we have received for Ann Alves. We don't pay anyone to provide their review and they are all made voluntarily. Some people's experience receiving therapy with BetterHelp might be different.
Ann is awesome. I started therapy back in August and I see such a difference. She makes the time and provides an amazing service to me. ❤️ Ann!
Written on Dec 19, 2023 after therapy with Ann for 3 months on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, grief, and coping with life changes
Ann is a wonderful therapist. From the first day she was able to help shift my mindset into a much more positive light even when most times I have been negative. She has been able to help change my life in such a tremendous way. Thank you Ann!! You’re the best!!
Written on Sep 14, 2023 after therapy with Ann for 2 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, addictions, lgbt, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, grief, intimacy-related issues, self esteem, anger management, coping with life changes, and adhd