Ms. Alexandra Garton, LMFT
(she/her)
Preferred Name: Alexandra
About Me
Are you dealing with some big changes in your life? Or, have you experienced something scary and upsetting? Are you feeling weighed down by your past and unable to move forward? My role as a therapist is to help you gain power over your life. Empowerment leads to freedom and reduced fear of the world around you, and self-empowerment starts with self-compassion. As a therapist, I act as a guide in a powerful process that helps you get closer to the things you want out of life. I offer non-judgmental support and encouragement. I have often been described as calming, attentive, compassionate and easy to talk to. I work from a strength-based perspective and can assist you with identifying and building on your strengths. Therapy is a collaborative process and while I have many ideas about how to help, YOU are in charge. I believe that you are the expert on you and invite open feedback in the sessions. Happiness and freedom come when we allow ourselves to listen to our individual wants and needs. In this fast-paced world, it can be a challenge to find the time to even identify what you want or need. In our sessions, I will offer you a safe, collaborative space to explore YOU. My specialties include PTSD and trauma which can present as problems with mood, relationships, mental health, school and work. I also treat depression, anxiety, parenting, and substance abuse challenges. I have experience working with toddlers, children, teens and adults of all ages. I recognize and examine the impact of race, culture, gender, and sexual orientation in my approach. I also understand the importance of time and finances in a person’s life. Therefore, I utilize evidence-based practices. These are therapy techniques proven by research to be effective in a timely manner. If this information sounds good to you, please call me! I understand that you may have questions before starting. To address this, I offer a free 5-10-minute consultation. I look forward to helping you on your journey!
Education & Experience
I received my Bachelor’s of Arts in Psychology and Communications from University of California, Davis. After a year of working at a Community Health Clinic and a Domestic Violence and sexual assault center, I returned to school and received my Master’s of Arts in Counseling Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of San Francisco. I’ve had the privilege to work with many different populations, including children, teens, and adults. In addition to the education I've received at UC Davis and the University of San Francisco, I've completed a variety of trainings. I am a certified EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapist, TF-CBT (Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavior Therapy) therapist, and supervisor. These two evidenced based practices work wonders with reducing trauma symptoms in children, teens, and adults. I’ve also been trained in and currently practice Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Feedback Informed Treatment, Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Functional Family Therapy (FFT). I have extensive experience working with youth and adults struggling with addiction. In addition to working with clients, I enjoy working with unlicensed therapists in need of clinical supervision.
Professional & Volunteer Affiliations
EMDRIA, NorCal TRN
Specialty Area
- Abuse/Neglect
- Addictions
- Alcohol/Substance Abuse
- Anxiety/Panic Attacks
- Birth Trauma/Pregnancy Loss
- Domestic Violence
- Marriage/Relationship Issues
- Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Sexual Abuse
- Spirituality
- Stress Management
- Traumatic Incident
Population Served
- Adolescents (13-17)
- Adults
- Children (4-12)
- Couples
- Families
- First Responders
- Group
- Infants/Toddlers (0-3)
- LGBTQ+
- Seniors
- Veterans/Military
Language
- English