Sharon Hatten,Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Hello! My name is Sharon Hatten, and I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) with over 18 years of experience in working with diverse populations ranging from children to at-risk teens, aging adults, and military veterans. I have worked in schools, homes, inpatient and outpatient settings. My goal is to provide effective, compassionate therapy and help clients improve and maintain their quality of life.

I utilize a client-centered approach to therapy, with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) to help clients address unhealthy thinking patterns, behaviors, and emotions. I also use elements of positive psychology to help clients focus on their internal strengths and resourcefulness, rather than their weaknesses and shortcomings to promote resilience.

I am adept at working with clients dealing with depression, anxiety, and stress -related issues. I am also experienced at working with client with mental health issues related to chronic illness. Early in my career, I worked with at-risk youth.

I work to create a safe space where my clients feel free to be open and honest. I "meet clients where they are" and offer supportive guidance. I believe trust is the foundation of a good therapeutic relationship and successful outcomes.

I have seen the impact of mental health struggles firsthand. I have had close family members go untreated for (what I know now to be) unresolved trauma, due to the cultural stigma and shame, financial, and education barriers associated with mental health treatment in the past. Thankfully, with the publicity of Mental Health Awareness campaigns and initiative, mental health therapy and treatment is widely accepted, and in many places, encouraged. The ability to help individuals work through their emotions is a gift that I believe I have had from as early as my middle school years. I was told that I was a "great listener" and "easy to talk to," so deciding to study to become a mental health therapist was an easy decision for me. For me, being a therapist is rewarding because it is a way to directly impact the lives of those who seek the help. I view therapy as a way to help individuals cope with life's unexpected turns and challenges, while getting the tools (skills and knowledge) to improve their wellbeing.

I work to help clients set a specific, realistic, and measurable goal based upon the overall goal identified by the client. I believe this will aid in collaboration and positive outcomes.

Clients should expect an introduction from me and my role and responsibilities as a therapist. They should expect questions regarding their decision to seek therapy and to provide any important background information and discuss current concerns. Clients should expect to be informed of their rights and responsibilities as the client and boundaries of the therapeutic relationship and discussion of confidentiality. By the end of this session, the client should have a good idea of whether or not I will be a good fit as their therapist.