Ann Voorhees

About Ann Voorhees

My focus:
I work with adults, 18 to post-retirement age. I am versed in issues related to depression, anxiety and fear where the communication of intense emotion is difficult, and you don’t have the sense of being heard or understood.

My communication style:
My communication style is mostly informal, warm – sometimes direct and to the point when circumstances merit this approach. My goal is to meet you where they you are versus expecting you to adapt to my style. I use empathy, understanding and sometimes humor, to create an environment of trust.

My journey to mental healthcare:
I graduated with my master’s in 1986; I knew that my passion for advocacy required an outlet and becoming a social worker fulfilled that need. I spent many years as an administrator and educator within the field of psychiatry and human services – that ran it’s course until I was drawn back to direct service a few years ago.

My goals for you:
My approach to goal setting involves asking you what you want out of the therapy, then translate that into your plan of care.

My first session with you: You can expect a warm, welcoming, and non-judgmental environment to safely share your emotions and concerns. We will start by asking if you have any questions about me or the process; I’ll clarify a few expectations, then I’ll ask you what you’d like me to know. This will lead to more questions to better understand your background, current situation, and what you’re hoping to achieve during our time together. The main goal for the first session is to begin building our therapeutic relationship and to gain an understanding of how together we can begin the journey toward positive change.