Today, we have some wonderful news to share – the arrival of our newest therapist! Quinn Viens, M.A., Associate Marriage & Family Therapist #139459. In this Q&A session, we have the opportunity to delve deeper into Quinn Viens' background, therapeutic approach, and personal insights.
Could you briefly describe your therapeutic approach and philosophy? How do you typically work with clients to help them achieve their goals?
I work primarily from a psychodynamic, attachment-based lens while pulling from additional theories for an integrative approach. I believe our experiences throughout our lives are internalized, forming patterns that influence how we approach ourselves, others, and the world. Once we recognize and understand these patterns, we can develop more effective responses.
In my work with individuals, I work to create a safe and supportive environment to encourage my clients to explore their emotions, experiences, and thoughts. I offer interpretations, observations, and gentle nudges to help clients gain awareness and explore how to use this insight to achieve their goals.
When working with couples, I help clients explore the patterns and dynamics within the relationship, aiming to foster secure and healthy bonds. We will work towards enhancing communication and emotional responsiveness to develop a stronger and more satisfying connection between partners.
How would you describe your communication style and ability to build rapport with clients?
My style is relational, collaborative, and fun. Therapy should not be limited to heaviness, intensity, and working through difficulties. It should also be a place to celebrate success, experience joy, and appreciate humor.
I strive to create a genuine, patient and non-judgmental environment where my clients feel empowered to embrace themselves authentically.
What specific client populations or issues do you specialize in or have experience working with?
My primary experience lies in providing support to individuals who have experiences with trauma, sexual assault, relationship issues, and grief and loss.
I also have experience and enjoy working with adolescents and adults who experience depression and anxiety, are struggling with significant life changes, seek to change their alcohol and substance use habits, navigate toxic relationships, and cope with overwhelming emotions, as well as couples hoping to improve aspects of their relationship.
How do you approach cultural diversity and ensure inclusivity in your therapy practice?
Therapy is individualized to each client to ensure a client-centered approach that honors and validates clients' cultural backgrounds, while also exploring the impact of cultural factors on their lives. Individuals' identities and experiences are influenced and molded by the unique cultural backgrounds they come from. As a result, effective therapy should always take into consideration the interplay of diverse cultural identities, which encompass factors such as gender, socioeconomic status, religion and spirituality, race, ethnicity, generation, accessibility and health, sexual orientation, and numerous other aspects.
Are there any specific areas within psychotherapy or mental health that you are particularly passionate about or interested in?
I find it particularly rewarding to work with survivors of trauma and sexual assault. When people go through traumatic experiences such as witnessing or experiencing abuse, sexual abuse or assault, it can have a deep impact on their lives. Oftentimes, individuals will lose touch with trust, independence, drive, self-identity, and connection to others and find themselves overwhelmed by shame, anger, fear, or numbness. By processing these experiences and memories in a safe, supportive, and caring space, survivors can help integrate and overcome these overwhelming feelings to restore and expand important aspects of their identity.
Regarding working with addiction, can you share your experience and approach to working with clients struggling with substance use? How do you support them in their journey towards recovery?
Addiction can be complex and individual goals will range from abstinence to harm reduction. I am passionate about working with individuals interested in examining and altering their relationship with addictive substances and behaviors as well as exploring underlying factors that contribute to their addictive behaviors.
Through providing resources, collaborating to set realistic objectives, and working together towards reducing or eliminating frequency or intensity, I assist clients in developing skills and strategies to minimize the negative impacts of a substance or behavior.
How do you create a safe and supportive environment for clients experiencing grief, allowing them to process their emotions and find meaning in their loss?
The process of grieving is just that – a process. There is no right way to grieve, no “stages” that should be following sequentially. I have a deep understanding of the complex and multifaceted nature of the grieving process. I have witnessed the wide range of emotions and challenges that can arise during this time. My focus is on creating a safe and supportive space for you to explore your unique experience of grief, and together, we can navigate this journey with compassion and understanding. Grief and loss must be honored and met with patience and recognition, rather than forced solutions, immediate relief, or pressure to move on.
Lastly, is there anything else you would like potential clients to know about you or your practice?
I look forward to meeting you, and value the opportunity to assist you in reaching your goals and fostering positive changes in your life.
If you are interested in speaking with Quinn directly, you can schedule a free 15 minute phone consultation HERE. Thank you for reading this Q&A with Los Angeles based psychotherapist Quinn Viens!