Strength-Based Therapists in Brooklyn, NY

Photo of Nicole Hutchinson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nicole Hutchinson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11217  (Online Only)
I strongly believe that at our core the way we interpret what we experience creates narratives that guides our behaviors or how we react to things. It can mean the difference between being hopeful and hopeless.
I strongly believe that at our core the way we interpret what we experience creates narratives that guides our behaviors or how we react to things. It can mean the difference between being hopeful and hopeless.
(646) 798-2251 View (646) 798-2251
Photo of Deanna Baker, LMHC, MSEd, Counselor
Deanna Baker
Counselor, LMHC, MSEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11205  (Online Only)
The people I work with have experienced trauma and are seeking a path towards healing. Trauma and trauma histories are complex and can look different for everyone. Sometimes symptoms can manifest in surprising ways. Many struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, relationship challenges or have difficulty managing stress. If you are looking for a safe, supportive environment where you can openly explore your thoughts, feelings, and history without fear of judgment, you are in the right place. No matter where you are on your journey, I am here to help.
The people I work with have experienced trauma and are seeking a path towards healing. Trauma and trauma histories are complex and can look different for everyone. Sometimes symptoms can manifest in surprising ways. Many struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, relationship challenges or have difficulty managing stress. If you are looking for a safe, supportive environment where you can openly explore your thoughts, feelings, and history without fear of judgment, you are in the right place. No matter where you are on your journey, I am here to help.
(845) 244-5838 View (845) 244-5838
Photo of Janice Tom-George, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janice Tom-George
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11226  (Online Only)
My approach is strength-based and one that provides a safe therapeutic environment which allows for self exploration and self growth.
Your life challenges do not get better by chance, they get better by change. Allow me to support you in that change process. I am a licensed Social Worker and therapist with over 25 years of experience providing individual and family therapy with adults and families. My goal is to provide a warm, caring, non-judgmental environment, one which values your religious beliefs and cultural diversity, to facilitate the life changes needed to achieve your full potential.
My approach is strength-based and one that provides a safe therapeutic environment which allows for self exploration and self growth.
Your life challenges do not get better by chance, they get better by change. Allow me to support you in that change process. I am a licensed Social Worker and therapist with over 25 years of experience providing individual and family therapy with adults and families. My goal is to provide a warm, caring, non-judgmental environment, one which values your religious beliefs and cultural diversity, to facilitate the life changes needed to achieve your full potential.
(929) 227-6308 View (929) 227-6308
Photo of Emily Scott, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Scott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11215  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I practice with a trauma-informed, intersectional, and strength-based approach, utilizing psychodynamic theory, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), somatic therapy, attachment theory, Health at Every Size (HAES), and harm reduction modalities.
Hi there! I work with a diverse population of individuals, couples, and folx in various "non-traditional" relationships who are facing self-esteem problems, gender identity, LGBTQ+ concerns, trauma, grief, body-image issues, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. As a fat, neurodiverse, and queer therapist, I know the importance of speaking with someone who is informed about your unique experiences and to feel connected to your therapist in a relational way, whether gay, big-bodied, or neurodiverse"
I practice with a trauma-informed, intersectional, and strength-based approach, utilizing psychodynamic theory, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), somatic therapy, attachment theory, Health at Every Size (HAES), and harm reduction modalities.
Hi there! I work with a diverse population of individuals, couples, and folx in various "non-traditional" relationships who are facing self-esteem problems, gender identity, LGBTQ+ concerns, trauma, grief, body-image issues, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. As a fat, neurodiverse, and queer therapist, I know the importance of speaking with someone who is informed about your unique experiences and to feel connected to your therapist in a relational way, whether gay, big-bodied, or neurodiverse"
(646) 762-1204 View (646) 762-1204
Photo of Glenn Zermeño, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Glenn Zermeño
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11238  (Online Only)
I take a person-centered, strength-based approach with an appreciation for the diversity of your unique life, cultural and historical perspective and experiences.
Are you looking for help with the challenges you face? Therapy can provide the supportive space to look at your life and make a change for the better. Often, relationships are at the heart of many of those challenges. You may want a better relationship with someone in your life. You may have a want to resolve the painful history of a past relationship. You may want a better relationship with yourself. Ultimately, you can have deeper and more meaningful relationships and feel better about yourself. I can help you find what you want.
I take a person-centered, strength-based approach with an appreciation for the diversity of your unique life, cultural and historical perspective and experiences.
Are you looking for help with the challenges you face? Therapy can provide the supportive space to look at your life and make a change for the better. Often, relationships are at the heart of many of those challenges. You may want a better relationship with someone in your life. You may have a want to resolve the painful history of a past relationship. You may want a better relationship with yourself. Ultimately, you can have deeper and more meaningful relationships and feel better about yourself. I can help you find what you want.
(917) 746-3145 View (917) 746-3145
Photo of Katya Kaye, LMSW
Katya Kaye
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11201
The experience of sharing stories, and feeling seen & heard in a safe space can be transformative. I draw from several evidence-based modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy, and Strength Based Therapy. Beyond the traditional modalities, I take a holistic approach with each client and believe in the power of integrating emotional, physical, social and spiritual wellbeing.
The experience of sharing stories, and feeling seen & heard in a safe space can be transformative. I draw from several evidence-based modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy, and Strength Based Therapy. Beyond the traditional modalities, I take a holistic approach with each client and believe in the power of integrating emotional, physical, social and spiritual wellbeing.
(347) 391-3739 View (347) 391-3739
Photo of Octavia Phoenix, LMHC, MA
Octavia Phoenix
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11222  (Online Only)
As your therapist, I support you in writing your life story using Strength-Based, Humanistic, and Mindfulness-Based techniques.
Are you looking to start your healing Journey? Whether you want to work on managing anxiety, have better coping skills for daily life stressors, explore self-identity, or even managing your interpersonal relationships (friends, family, romantic partners), finding the right Mental Health Professional is the first step. I have experience working with clients from diverse backgrounds and addressing a wide range of issues.
As your therapist, I support you in writing your life story using Strength-Based, Humanistic, and Mindfulness-Based techniques.
Are you looking to start your healing Journey? Whether you want to work on managing anxiety, have better coping skills for daily life stressors, explore self-identity, or even managing your interpersonal relationships (friends, family, romantic partners), finding the right Mental Health Professional is the first step. I have experience working with clients from diverse backgrounds and addressing a wide range of issues.
(347) 601-2986 View (347) 601-2986
Photo of Gigi Huang, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gigi Huang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11242
With a strength-based and direct approach, My practice is drawn from multiple theories: Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Solution Focused Brief (SFBT).
I am a non-binary, mentally ill, Taiwanese immigrant. My journey as a therapist is guided by lived experience and a strong commitment to justice. I have been working with toddlers, teenagers, and adults from all walks of life since 2016. My expertise lies in working with people living with complex trauma, grief, and substance use. I am also in community with kinksters and sex worker and am equipped to discuss non-monogamy, relationships involving power exchange (e.g., sub/dom dynamics), and fetish related matters.
With a strength-based and direct approach, My practice is drawn from multiple theories: Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Solution Focused Brief (SFBT).
I am a non-binary, mentally ill, Taiwanese immigrant. My journey as a therapist is guided by lived experience and a strong commitment to justice. I have been working with toddlers, teenagers, and adults from all walks of life since 2016. My expertise lies in working with people living with complex trauma, grief, and substance use. I am also in community with kinksters and sex worker and am equipped to discuss non-monogamy, relationships involving power exchange (e.g., sub/dom dynamics), and fetish related matters.
(929) 334-4714 View (929) 334-4714
Photo of Rebecca Elkin, MA, LCAT, RDT
Rebecca Elkin
Creative Arts Therapist, MA, LCAT, RDT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11201  (Online Only)
I provide supportive, strength-based therapy for clients facing life transitions, those experiencing challenging relationship dynamics, & women (& their partners) who are impacted by issues related to reproductive health (infertility, miscarriage, pre/postnatal, STIs, motherhood).
I am passionate about creating a comfortable and validating therapeutic environment where you know that you are free to be your most honest and open self. I am genuinely invested in getting to know you while nonjudgmentally exploring and supporting your unique complexities and challenges. In a therapeutic relationship, I value down-to-earth communication, humor when appropriate, and authenticity. I hope that from the very first day we work together, you get the sense that you are no longer alone in carrying any burdens weighing on you. We will be a team and navigate everything together.
I provide supportive, strength-based therapy for clients facing life transitions, those experiencing challenging relationship dynamics, & women (& their partners) who are impacted by issues related to reproductive health (infertility, miscarriage, pre/postnatal, STIs, motherhood).
I am passionate about creating a comfortable and validating therapeutic environment where you know that you are free to be your most honest and open self. I am genuinely invested in getting to know you while nonjudgmentally exploring and supporting your unique complexities and challenges. In a therapeutic relationship, I value down-to-earth communication, humor when appropriate, and authenticity. I hope that from the very first day we work together, you get the sense that you are no longer alone in carrying any burdens weighing on you. We will be a team and navigate everything together.
(917) 810-2608 View (917) 810-2608
Photo of Joel Cruz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joel Cruz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11201  (Online Only)
While incorporating a strength-based, trauma-informed lens, I use a blend of psychotherapeutic styles including narrative therapy, CBT, and psychoanalysis.
It can be difficult processing who we are, what we have experienced, and how we should move forward in the face of adversity. While working collaboratively, I welcome individuals to share their story unapologetically and unpack these life experiences. I work to build a caring collaboration that aims to empower and uplift while fostering safety and trust. I offer an affirming, safe space for people who identify as a POC and/or LGBTQIA+ to explore their identities holistically and deconstruct their own narrative within a larger system. Together, we can create a plan with your specific needs and goals in mind.
While incorporating a strength-based, trauma-informed lens, I use a blend of psychotherapeutic styles including narrative therapy, CBT, and psychoanalysis.
It can be difficult processing who we are, what we have experienced, and how we should move forward in the face of adversity. While working collaboratively, I welcome individuals to share their story unapologetically and unpack these life experiences. I work to build a caring collaboration that aims to empower and uplift while fostering safety and trust. I offer an affirming, safe space for people who identify as a POC and/or LGBTQIA+ to explore their identities holistically and deconstruct their own narrative within a larger system. Together, we can create a plan with your specific needs and goals in mind.
(332) 334-7973 View (332) 334-7973
Photo of Nicole Sisti, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Sisti
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11211
Waitlist for new clients
As a mind-body oriented therapist, I believe that our thoughts, emotions, nervous system, and physical body are interconnected. I combine theories of talk therapy while emphasizing the need to feel, re-process, and experience new emotions in the room together. I value collaboration and will use a strength-based, person-centered approach in our work together. I view you as the expert on your life, my role as a therapist is to foster a safe space and guide the healing process. I am also a musician and work with artists who experience creative blocks and those whose mental health is impacted by the industry.
As a mind-body oriented therapist, I believe that our thoughts, emotions, nervous system, and physical body are interconnected. I combine theories of talk therapy while emphasizing the need to feel, re-process, and experience new emotions in the room together. I value collaboration and will use a strength-based, person-centered approach in our work together. I view you as the expert on your life, my role as a therapist is to foster a safe space and guide the healing process. I am also a musician and work with artists who experience creative blocks and those whose mental health is impacted by the industry.
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Photo of Ashley Arnold, Counselor
Ashley Arnold
Counselor
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11234
Hello all! My name is Ashley Arnold and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I have my bachelors degree in Music Therapy and my masters degree from Molloy College in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I use a client centered approach and believe that my client’s should be an active part of determining their goals for therapy. I have post graduate training in trauma focused therapy, addiction therapy, and multicultural approaches to therapy. I typically work with clients 13 years and older. I have worked with clients with addiction, anxiety, depression, trauma, personality disorders, ADHD and relationship issues.
Hello all! My name is Ashley Arnold and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I have my bachelors degree in Music Therapy and my masters degree from Molloy College in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I use a client centered approach and believe that my client’s should be an active part of determining their goals for therapy. I have post graduate training in trauma focused therapy, addiction therapy, and multicultural approaches to therapy. I typically work with clients 13 years and older. I have worked with clients with addiction, anxiety, depression, trauma, personality disorders, ADHD and relationship issues.
(347) 682-2831 View (347) 682-2831
Photo of Opher Shamir, MA, LCAT, RDT, Art Therapist
Opher Shamir
Art Therapist, MA, LCAT, RDT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11225
Opher Shamir (he/him) is a licensed creative arts therapist and registered drama therapist who specializes in mind-body connection, relationships, and social-cultural aspects of mental health across the lifespan. Opher uses evidence-based techniques to individualize the treatment for each person or family with whom he works. His approach is strength-based and follows the principles of the Disability Justice Movement. Opher adjusts himself to the communication style, abilities, and interests of each client, appreciating difference while also providing tools to expand self-expression and agency over one’s life.
Opher Shamir (he/him) is a licensed creative arts therapist and registered drama therapist who specializes in mind-body connection, relationships, and social-cultural aspects of mental health across the lifespan. Opher uses evidence-based techniques to individualize the treatment for each person or family with whom he works. His approach is strength-based and follows the principles of the Disability Justice Movement. Opher adjusts himself to the communication style, abilities, and interests of each client, appreciating difference while also providing tools to expand self-expression and agency over one’s life.
(646) 766-0524 View (646) 766-0524
Photo of Dr. Keneca Boyce, PhD, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Keneca Boyce
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LMSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11225  (Online Only)
My therapeutic style is holistic, incorporating a blend of evidence based and evidence informed interventions and a host of customized, eclectic strategies with a strength-based approach as a common thread.
Welcome! I am a patient and supportive therapist who customizes therapy to suit your needs to promote healing, self-discovery, personal and professional development. As a trauma-informed, healing-centered practitioner; I have extensive experience as a therapist, trainer and inspirational speaker. My clients are everyday people: entrepreneurs, educators, therapists, entertainers, athletes, nonprofit and corporate professionals, political representatives, law enforcement, lawyers, retirees etc. I have a robust clientele of men of color and work diligently to bridge the gap between their humanity and their wellness.
My therapeutic style is holistic, incorporating a blend of evidence based and evidence informed interventions and a host of customized, eclectic strategies with a strength-based approach as a common thread.
Welcome! I am a patient and supportive therapist who customizes therapy to suit your needs to promote healing, self-discovery, personal and professional development. As a trauma-informed, healing-centered practitioner; I have extensive experience as a therapist, trainer and inspirational speaker. My clients are everyday people: entrepreneurs, educators, therapists, entertainers, athletes, nonprofit and corporate professionals, political representatives, law enforcement, lawyers, retirees etc. I have a robust clientele of men of color and work diligently to bridge the gap between their humanity and their wellness.
(347) 218-9914 View (347) 218-9914
Photo of Kate Bard, ATR-BC, LCAT, Art Therapist
Kate Bard
Art Therapist, ATR-BC, LCAT
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11215  (Online Only)
Using an open-minded and strength-based approach, I will work with you to address obstacles, and to develop strategies for making progress.
Available for remote sessions in NY - individual therapy or professional supervision for credentialing (ATR-BC, LCAT). I am a licensed, board-certified creative arts therapist, with over 15 years of experience working with teens and adults from a variety of backgrounds and circumstances. I'm interested in working with you to explore obstacles and to support you in creating the life that you want. My professional life includes therapeutic experience in hospitals, schools, and private practice. I work creatively and collaboratively to explore and problem-solve through whatever it is you are facing.
Using an open-minded and strength-based approach, I will work with you to address obstacles, and to develop strategies for making progress.
Available for remote sessions in NY - individual therapy or professional supervision for credentialing (ATR-BC, LCAT). I am a licensed, board-certified creative arts therapist, with over 15 years of experience working with teens and adults from a variety of backgrounds and circumstances. I'm interested in working with you to explore obstacles and to support you in creating the life that you want. My professional life includes therapeutic experience in hospitals, schools, and private practice. I work creatively and collaboratively to explore and problem-solve through whatever it is you are facing.
(646) 652-6518 View (646) 652-6518
Photo of Marsha Saintilus - Inspired Healing Services , MA, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Inspired Healing Services
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11207  (Online Only)
Our mission is to uplift and encourage people to reach their full potential. We believe that when people have the support and tools that they need, they will succeed by reaching their desired goals. We utilize strength based and person-focused approaches while assisting individuals in coming to a place of living a well-balanced life where they feel heard and honored as an individual.
Our mission is to uplift and encourage people to reach their full potential. We believe that when people have the support and tools that they need, they will succeed by reaching their desired goals. We utilize strength based and person-focused approaches while assisting individuals in coming to a place of living a well-balanced life where they feel heard and honored as an individual.
(929) 930-5564 View (929) 930-5564
Photo of Edith Chase, LP-MFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Edith Chase
Pre-Licensed Professional, LP-MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11211  (Online Only)
Because I believe you have the strengths within you to overcome every challenge you face, I use a solution-focused and strength-based approach to help you tap into your internal resources.
Are you ready to transform your life? Imagine a life filled with deeply fulfilling relationships, reduced stress, and increased self-confidence. That's what's possible when we work together. As a certified Dating and Relationship Coach with over 20 years of experience, I've helped countless individuals and couples overcome challenges, improve communication, and build lasting connections. Whether you're struggling with relationship anxiety, healing from emotional abuse, or simply looking to deepen your connection with your partner or you are navigating some other life circumstance, I am here and ready to support you on your journey.
Because I believe you have the strengths within you to overcome every challenge you face, I use a solution-focused and strength-based approach to help you tap into your internal resources.
Are you ready to transform your life? Imagine a life filled with deeply fulfilling relationships, reduced stress, and increased self-confidence. That's what's possible when we work together. As a certified Dating and Relationship Coach with over 20 years of experience, I've helped countless individuals and couples overcome challenges, improve communication, and build lasting connections. Whether you're struggling with relationship anxiety, healing from emotional abuse, or simply looking to deepen your connection with your partner or you are navigating some other life circumstance, I am here and ready to support you on your journey.
(347) 970-7914 View (347) 970-7914
Photo of Lisa M Bellamy, LMHC, LPC, CCATP, Counselor
Lisa M Bellamy
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, CCATP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11212  (Online Only)
Life has a way of presenting challenges that we do not always expect. Such challenges can lead to feelings of anxiety, sadness, and other unpleasant emotions. My goal is to provide you with a warm, empathetic, collaborative, non-judgmental environment that will allow you to feel safe and heard as we navigate life’s challenges; explore practical coping skills; and discover hidden strengths you did not know you had!
Life has a way of presenting challenges that we do not always expect. Such challenges can lead to feelings of anxiety, sadness, and other unpleasant emotions. My goal is to provide you with a warm, empathetic, collaborative, non-judgmental environment that will allow you to feel safe and heard as we navigate life’s challenges; explore practical coping skills; and discover hidden strengths you did not know you had!
(718) 795-2705 View (718) 795-2705
Photo of Eva Marie Gordon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eva Marie Gordon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11225  (Online Only)
Using a strength-based perspective allows us to explore solutions.
As a therapist, my goal is to help people understand how their thoughts and emotions impact their behavior. It is important to take time to reflect on our lives and what we can do to make things better. Whether it is grieving the loss of a loved one, feeling anxious, not able to make friends, or feeling hopeless, there are tools you can learn to help you feel better. As a Black woman of American and Caribbean descent, I especially enjoy providing mental health treatment to the Black community. The Black community can use psychotherapy to heal from past and present pain and to improve our well-being, within a cultural framework.
Using a strength-based perspective allows us to explore solutions.
As a therapist, my goal is to help people understand how their thoughts and emotions impact their behavior. It is important to take time to reflect on our lives and what we can do to make things better. Whether it is grieving the loss of a loved one, feeling anxious, not able to make friends, or feeling hopeless, there are tools you can learn to help you feel better. As a Black woman of American and Caribbean descent, I especially enjoy providing mental health treatment to the Black community. The Black community can use psychotherapy to heal from past and present pain and to improve our well-being, within a cultural framework.
(718) 957-8623 View (718) 957-8623
Photo of Chanelle Spencer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chanelle Spencer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11201  (Online Only)
My approach is strength-based and client-focused.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you achieving success but not feeling fulfilled? Are you considering how you can increase your sense of purpose? I understand your struggle. My goal is to help you reach your full potential while feeling empowered and equipped with the necessary tools to navigate life.
My approach is strength-based and client-focused.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you achieving success but not feeling fulfilled? Are you considering how you can increase your sense of purpose? I understand your struggle. My goal is to help you reach your full potential while feeling empowered and equipped with the necessary tools to navigate life.
(929) 203-5119 View (929) 203-5119
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Strength-Based Therapists

How does strength-based therapy work?

During strength-based therapy sessions, the therapist will ask about an individual’s experiences of stress, pain, or trauma with the goal of orienting the client to view themselves as a survivor rather than a victim, and focusing on their strengths rather than on their weaknesses. In framing a client’s personal narrative along these lines, the therapist and client work together to identify existing skills that can be harnessed.

Is strength-based therapy evidence-based?

Strength-based therapy is an evidence-based treatment that has been studied extensively and shown to be effective across domains. The treatment has been found to be particularly effective in helping individuals who are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and other mental health concerns. Strength-based therapy has been used by therapists to help clients for more than 60 years.

How long does strength-based therapy last?

There’s no precise timeline for strength-based therapy. The duration of treatment depends on the individual’s specific needs and goals and the severity of their concerns. Some individuals may find they achieve their therapeutic goals quickly, while others might benefit from ongoing support and guidance in order to continue progressing.

How effective is strength-based therapy?

Clinical research and decades of practice have shown strength-based therapy to be an effective treatment to improve mental health and well-being for many conditions. The treatment can engender a sense of connection and collaboration between the therapist and the individual, fostering a positive therapeutic relationship. For individuals with narcissistic tendencies, strength-based therapy may be less effective, as the focus on the individual’s strengths may undermine the work needed to honestly assess the challenges the individual faces.