5+ Years Exp - LCSW
Connor Skeen
5+ Years Exp
5+ Years Exp
Connor Skeen
I graduated from Monmouth University with a Master's Degree in Social Work in 2020. For the past 4 years I have worked in addictions as a counselor for people struggling with opiate use, alcoholism, and other substance use disorders. I have also worked as a psychotherapist during this time, treating adults, children, couples, and families. I have experience in working with Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Substance Use Disorders, and LGBTQIA+ issues. My approach to therapy is a palatable mixture of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Existential Therapy. I aim to help my client's gain insight into their problems, while providing concrete steps towards fixing those problems. I believe that every individual needs something different out of therapy; education, support, a listening ear, guidance, amongst other things. My goal is to help discern what you need from therapy and how I can best help you. I like to see life as a story. In therapy, we will explore your story: with you as the main character. Although you may be in the middle of a difficult chapter, I am confident that together we can turn the page towards something better.
I recall one adolescent client who came to me without many positive influences in their life. They were bullied often and had experienced intense trauma from a young age. They were struggling in school and taking their frustrations and anger with the world out on their self. Over the course of my two years with this client, I saw slow, gradual change that resulted in a more stable individual who learned to be kind to their self. My constant support and positive voice helped them to learn that pain is temporary and self-talk can go a long way in healing past trauma. I like to think that all my client's can benefit from that same kind of support.
I encourage my clients to express their thoughts and feelings in a non-judgmental space, while guiding the process with questions that promote introspection and change.
A first session with me is all about getting the common themes of your story. There's is always more to learn, but I want to begin to understand who you are and how you got to where you are from day one.
What motivates me most is seeing the positive impact I can have on my clients by giving them a listening ear and helpful feedback without judgment.
Highlights
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
Clients can expect a place to vent frustrations, express anxieties, and learn coping skills for managing difficult emotions. I view my client's as equals and take a collaborative approach towards helping you find better ways to handle life's stressors.
What treatment methods and tools do you utilize?
I utilize evidence-based therapies, including Psychotherapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Existential Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Psychodynamic Therapy and Narrative Therapy.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
My main focus in my career has been working with individuals struggling with addiction and anxiety disorders/depression. I am a good listener and have extensive experience in helping individuals to restructure their thought processes to promote wellness and improve self-image.
Specialities