Nurturing Minds,
Inspiring Futures
Nurturing Mental Wellness through Personalized Care
Our Expertise in Mental Health Services
We offer specialized support for a wide range of psychological concerns.
Psychodiagnostic Assessment
In-depth evaluations for ADHD, PTSD, OCD, and other psychological conditions to provide clear, actionable insights.
Individual & Family Psychotherapy
Personalized therapy sessions addressing individual, family, and relationship challenges, including parenting and child behavior.
Speaking Engagements
Engaging and insightful talks on mental health and well-being, addressing essential topics such as anxiety, ADHD, trauma, family relationships, emotional health, life transitions, and personal growth.
Forensic Services
Expert witness services, family assessments, and specialized evaluations in legal contexts, including child custody and PTSD.
Meet Dr. Akira Olsen
Dr. Akira Olsen is a dedicated clinical psychologist with a passion for helping individuals of all ages, particularly youth, families, and artistic individuals. With a personalized, whole-person approach, Dr. Olsen focuses on fostering mental wellness through evidence-based practices and compassionate support.
Areas of Support
We provide treatment and support for the following issues:
- General Anxiety & Stress
- ADHD/Executive Functioning
- Childhood Trauma
- Emotion Regulation
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Loss and Grief
- Motivation and Behavior Change
- Family and Relationship Issues
- Coparenting & Parenting
- Behavior Addiction
- Life Transitions
- Immigration and Adjustment
Frequently Asked
Questions
Please reach us at drakiraclinical@gmail.com if you cannot find an answer to your question.
Ready to take the first step?
Simply give us a call or shoot us an email to schedule your initial consultation meeting. Once we've set a time to connect, I'll promptly send over a handy packet via email. This packet includes everything you need to get started: an intake questionnaire to personalize your experience, our office policies for your reference, and a clear breakdown of our fees. We're here to make this process as smooth and easy as possible for you!
How long will therapy last?
Embarking on therapy is akin to embarking on a personalized journey designed just for you. While the path doesn't have a predetermined end, its purpose is to help you achieve your personal goals and discover relief. Typically, therapy comprises a range of sessions, with many individuals finding resolution within 10 to 16 sessions, while more complex cases may extend to 24-48 sessions. However, the duration is ultimately contingent on your progress and our mutual agreement that your treatment objectives have been met. After our initial assessment, we'll provide you with an estimate of the length of treatment, ensuring transparency and collaboration throughout the process. Throughout this journey, we're committed to providing unwavering support, ensuring that your experience is both effective and comfortable.
What can I expect from therapy? What is happening in therapy?
It's important to understand that therapy isn't about quick fixes or guarantees. Instead, it's a collaborative journey where we work together to create a supportive environment for your personal growth and goal achievement. Your active participation during our sessions plays a crucial role in the process. While our main aim is to help you achieve your identified goals, it's common to experience additional positive changes along the way. Think of it as a space where we nurture your potential and empower you to navigate life's challenges with resilience and insight.
what is a psychologist and what is psychotherapy?
Psychologists (PsyD or PhD) who specialize in psychotherapy and other forms of psychological treatment are highly trained professionals with expertise in the areas of human behavior, mental health assessment, diagnosis and treatment, and behavior change. In addition, a license is required to practice psychology. Psychologists work with patients to change their feelings and attitudes and help them develop healthier, more effective patterns of behavior. Psychologists apply scientifically validated procedures to help people change their thoughts, emotions and behaviors. Psychotherapy is a collaborative effort between an individual and a psychologist. It provides a supportive environment to talk openly and confidentially about concerns and feelings. Psychologists consider maintaining your confidentiality extremely important and will answer your questions regarding those rare circumstances when confidential information must be shared. Psychologists are generally licensed in the United States. A psychologist is typically the culmination of earning a doctoral degree in clinical, counseling or school psychology, accruing postdoctoral clinical hours and passing the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology. Other licensed psychotherapists are licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT) and licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Both licenses require a Masters’degree in psychology, counseling or social work in the US.
how do i find a psychologist?
To find a psychologist, ask your physician or another health professional. Call your local or state psychological association. Consult a local university or college department of psychology. Ask family and friends. Contact your area community mental health center. Inquire at your church or synagogue. Or, use CPA or APA’s provider locator services (https://locator.apa.org/). You can also use Psychology Today (https://www.psychologytoday.com/us).
what to consider when making the choice?
Psychologists and clients work together. The right match is important. Most psychologists agree that an important factor in determining whether or not to work with a particular psychologist, once that psychologist's credentials and competence are established, is your level of personal comfort with that psychologist. A good rapport with your psychologist is critical. Choose one with whom you feel comfortable and at ease.
which is better, therapy or medication? do i need therapy?
Psychotherapy is proven to be effective for a variety of problems including stress, depression, anxiety, trauma, attention, loss/grief, relationship/Family problems, life transition issues, workplace issues, and motivation issues. In initial meetings, Dr.Olsen will ask you about your goals or concerns and background information. She'll discuss a right approach, the length of therapy, and a plan with you. Once we mutually agree on the course of treatment, we'll start a formal session. You'll be provided with her office policies and treatment agreement at the office. The type of treatment used depends on the nature of the problem. Generally, medication is often prescribed for conditions known to have strong biological components, such as major depression, bipolar disorder, or panic disorder. Research suggests that use of medication and psychotherapy together may be the best approach for more severe conditions.
what are different approaches to psychotherapy?
There are many different approaches to psychotherapy. Use of one method or another depends on the psychologist’s or therapist’s training, style and personality. Some psychologists use one approach with all patients; others are eclectic, and some tailor their approach based on particular patients’ needs, symptoms and personality. For example, Cognitive-behavioral approaches emphasize learning to recognize and change maladaptive thought patterns and behaviors, improve how feelings and worries are handled, and break the cycle of dysfunctional habitual behaviors. This perspective helps people see the connection between how they think, what they tell themselves, and the feelings and actions that follow. Interpersonal approaches emphasize identifying and understanding self-defeating patterns in relationships, figuring out why a particular situation is happening in a particular context, changing patterns that don’t work and developing healthier ones. In this approach, relationships and the here-and- now are the focus.
Contact Us
Let's
Connect
We'd love to hear from you! Whether you have questions about our services or are ready to book a session or retreat, we're here to help. Reach out to us via email, phone, or social media, and let's start your journey to healing together.
Start Your Journey
If you're prepared to begin a transformative journey of healing and growth, I invite you to reach out. Whether you're seeking therapy, coaching, or a retreat experience, The Healing Ventures is here to guide and support you.