5+ Years Exp - LPC
Stacey Rettew
5+ Years Exp
5+ Years Exp
Stacey Rettew
I am Licensed Professional Counselor in both New Jersey and Pennsylvania. I earned my Master's of Science from Thomas Jefferson University in Community and Trauma Counseling. I believe that the foundation to a successful therapy experience lies in the power of the therapeutic relationship. As a trauma-focused therapist, I also view mental health through a wellness perspective rooted in a renewed relationship between mind and body. My goal is to create an affirming and compassionate space which values collaboration and structure that encourages agency and empowerment. My aim is to walk with my clients toward the rediscovery of their internal strengths to meet their therapeutic goals. I consistently strive toward affirming and culturally competent care built on respect and hope.
I worked with a 60 year old male who had never disclosed a childhood sexual assault that occurred when he was fourteen years old. After working through PTSD connected to the death of his infant son, the client disclosed the abuse. Together, we embarked engaged in Prolonged Exposure Therapy during which the client was able to reduce trauma reminders, distress and re-engage in activities he had avoided since the assault. Not only did he re-engage, but he enjoyed the activities and went on to volunteer within a men's group to provide additional support to his peers.
Early sessions include building rapport, defining treatment needs, assessment and history taking in a way that feels safe for the client. Early in treatment, I provide psychoeducation regarding diagnoses and interventions. I work collaboratively with clients to provide space for both building safety and confidence. While I may not provide specific homework, I do ask clients to build awareness and implement interventions between sessions. Clients can also expect a balanced approach that meets them where they are, but also challenges them in a way to connect with their strengths.
First session provides a general orientation to treatment and expectations that increase efficacy of the therapy process. I will ask questions regarding successes and challenges related to previous therapy experiences so that we can establish treatment goals and build understanding of each other. While I engage in assessment and history taking, I encourage the client to be directive as possible so to encourage both therapeutic connection and safety within the treatment process. The end of session typically includes a mindfulness or relaxation exercise, as well as a plan for upcoming session focus.
Witness and gratitude. I am so entirely grateful for this work and witness its power and vulnerability. I am truly honored when clients trust me to bear witness to their experiences, both positive and negative. It is that gratitude and witness that encourages me to continue to grow and develop professionally and personally and aim to provide a space for hope and healing.
Highlights
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
I am a relational therapist who used the therapeutic relationship as a tool within the healing process. I utilize multiple evidence-based practices to individualize treatment interventions. Additionally, I am intentional about providing encouragement, safety, and open communication in order to create a corrective and client-centered experience. I will also utilize interventions to identify and challenge maladaptive beliefs and implement coping strategies that serve as barriers to goal achievement. Together, we will create a roadmap toward healing.
What treatment methods and tools do you utilize?
I utilize evidence-based therapies, including Psychotherapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Trauma-Focused Therapy, EMDR & TF-CBT.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
I feel that my biggest strengths stem from my intellect combined with my lived experience so that I can provide a multifaceted approach to treatment based on warmth and empathy. Since safety is imperative to successful treatment, open communication, equality and understanding are prioritized within my therapy space. I work diligently to recognize our shared humanity to create the most effective treatment for any therapeutic need.
Specialities