Lisa Oakley

Experience

As a Senior Associate Holistic Psychotherapist at The Center for Family Well-Being, I’m trained and experienced in a wide variety of modalities, to include trauma therapies, LGBTQ support, animal-assisted psychotherapy, nature-based therapy, and more. I’m a licensed clinical social worker and I’ve been practicing for 13 years. In addition to my time at the Center, my work in the mental health field includes time as a school counselor (elementary through high school); a community-based, in-home mental health provider and therapist; and a social worker at an in-patient psychiatric facility.

Therapeutic  Focus

I love working with people of all ages, including children (8 and up), adolescents, adults, and families who are navigating a variety of emotional or transitional challenges. With my clients I focus on a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, self-regulation, different learning styles, grief and loss, divorce, adoption, and identity exploration. When working with children and teens, I also like to work closely with parents to help them identify and implement practical and personalized strategies to help them gain confidence as they navigate the many challenges that come with raising children.  

I offer a variety of experiential techniques, including animal-assisted therapy, art therapy and walk-and-talk therapy in Rock Creek Park. I incorporate my therapy dog, Manny, into many of my sessions, and he loves to welcome people into the office and make them feel comfortable and at ease. For those who enjoy arts and crafts, there are many opportunities to explore thoughts and feelings through a creative process. And for those who are drawn to nature, I offer walk-and-talk therapy sessions in nearby Rock Creek Park where we can utilize the natural beauty of this local resource to facilitate emotional healing.   

Philosophy 

I provide a positive, person-centered, and strength-based approach. This involves respecting and encouraging a client's own goals and perspectives as we work together on identifying and addressing sources of stress or disruption that may affect daily functioning or emotional well-being. I believe in providing a safe space in which to process and explore emotions, as well as develop practical and effective coping skills and strategies.