Jennifer Hodges, LCSW

My approach to therapy is collaborative, strengths-based, and tailored to each patient’s individual needs. I often integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI) while helping patients recognize and build upon the strengths they already possess. Together, we explore how thoughts, emotions, and behaviors may be influencing current challenges, while identifying patterns that may be getting in the way of the life they want. When patients feel uncertain or stuck, I use motivational interviewing to explore ambivalence, clarify personal values, and help them identify their own reasons and readiness for change.

During the intake session, we’ll take time to get to know one another and discuss what brings them to therapy, their current concerns, relevant history, and what they hope to gain from our work together. I’ll ask questions to better understand their needs while creating a comfortable, nonjudgmental space where they can share at their own pace. Together, we’ll begin identifying goals and developing a plan for therapy that feels meaningful and individualized to them.

One thing patients frequently notice is how much I remember about them-even details they shared months or years earlier. I believe this helps patients feel genuinely known and understood rather than feeling like they have to start over each session. Patients have also told me that my calm presence helps them feel calmer and that they feel safe talking with me about things they may have difficulty sharing elsewhere. I strive to be genuine, compassionate, and nonjudgmental while also being honest and willing to gently challenge patients when it can help them grow.