Strength-Based Therapists in South Boulevard-Park Row, Dallas, TX

Photo of Tony Cesario, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tony Cesario
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
South Boulevard-Park Row, Dallas, TX 75215  (Online Only)
My name is Tony Cesario and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas. I live in the Austin area and have worked with clients from many diverse backgrounds and identities. Recently I have been working with many LGBTQIA+ clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, and self-esteem/image issues. I believe in a holistic and strength based approach to therapy which means that I am interested in you as an entire person and that I want to help you find the strength inside yourself that you may not realize is already there.
My name is Tony Cesario and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas. I live in the Austin area and have worked with clients from many diverse backgrounds and identities. Recently I have been working with many LGBTQIA+ clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, and self-esteem/image issues. I believe in a holistic and strength based approach to therapy which means that I am interested in you as an entire person and that I want to help you find the strength inside yourself that you may not realize is already there.
(737) 727-3501 View (737) 727-3501
Photo of Candace Cooper, MRC, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Candace Cooper
Licensed Professional Counselor, MRC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Boulevard-Park Row, Dallas, TX 75215
Hi! I'm Candace. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, who has over 7 years of mental health professions working with youth, adults and families. I have a long history of working with others in strength-based & collaborative approach to help other manage their anxiety, depressions, trauma, and more. My goal is help you enhance your quality of life.
Hi! I'm Candace. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, who has over 7 years of mental health professions working with youth, adults and families. I have a long history of working with others in strength-based & collaborative approach to help other manage their anxiety, depressions, trauma, and more. My goal is help you enhance your quality of life.
(682) 310-6210 View (682) 310-6210
Photo of Kizzy Griffin, MS, LPC, LMSW, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kizzy Griffin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LMSW
Verified Verified
South Boulevard-Park Row, Dallas, TX 75215  (Online Only)
Since 2018, I have utilized person-centered and strength-based practices to promote the "Power of Self." These practices empower individuals to direct their therapeutic process. Establishing a safe zone and welcoming client feedback allows methods that are proven to be effective in managing difficulties, promoting personal growth, and accomplishing personal goals. I also provide therapy services to individuals exploring their sexuality; sexually fluent; and those that are experiencing a decrease or increase in sexual functioning.
Since 2018, I have utilized person-centered and strength-based practices to promote the "Power of Self." These practices empower individuals to direct their therapeutic process. Establishing a safe zone and welcoming client feedback allows methods that are proven to be effective in managing difficulties, promoting personal growth, and accomplishing personal goals. I also provide therapy services to individuals exploring their sexuality; sexually fluent; and those that are experiencing a decrease or increase in sexual functioning.
(254) 232-5631 View (254) 232-5631
Photo of Charlotte Mulgrew, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Charlotte Mulgrew
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
South Boulevard-Park Row, Dallas, TX 75215
Have you have been finding it harder to feel joy, self-acceptance, or it's becoming harder by the day to simply stay afloat? In life, we are often made to feel flawed for being human, but I want you to know that you deserve a space that is healing, supportive, and free of judgment. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I feel honored to help others navigate painful events, emotions, and disordered eating behaviors so that they are able to live their life to its full potential and appreciate their authentic selves. Opening up about our pain can feel like a risk, but I hope in our work together, you realize you're worth this risk.
Have you have been finding it harder to feel joy, self-acceptance, or it's becoming harder by the day to simply stay afloat? In life, we are often made to feel flawed for being human, but I want you to know that you deserve a space that is healing, supportive, and free of judgment. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I feel honored to help others navigate painful events, emotions, and disordered eating behaviors so that they are able to live their life to its full potential and appreciate their authentic selves. Opening up about our pain can feel like a risk, but I hope in our work together, you realize you're worth this risk.
(972) 472-2097 View (972) 472-2097
Photo of Taylor-Nicole Bailey, LMSW
Taylor-Nicole Bailey
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Boulevard-Park Row, Dallas, TX 75215  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! Are you in need of emotional support as you process current or past concerns? Are you looking to work on goals to decrease your stress and increase your happiness and overall life satisfaction? I am a Licensed Master Social Worker serving clients in Texas. I became a therapist to nurture the minds of others. In the therapy space, I utilize a trauma-informed approach. The healing process can be scary, overwhelming, or even uncomfortable. My job is to guide you towards the light at whatever pace you feel comfortable going. It is your journey, I am only here to help you along the rough spots.
Welcome! Are you in need of emotional support as you process current or past concerns? Are you looking to work on goals to decrease your stress and increase your happiness and overall life satisfaction? I am a Licensed Master Social Worker serving clients in Texas. I became a therapist to nurture the minds of others. In the therapy space, I utilize a trauma-informed approach. The healing process can be scary, overwhelming, or even uncomfortable. My job is to guide you towards the light at whatever pace you feel comfortable going. It is your journey, I am only here to help you along the rough spots.
(682) 297-4281 View (682) 297-4281
Photo of Tamara Johns - Exhale Therapy, Wellness, and Consulting Services , MEd, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Exhale Therapy, Wellness, and Consulting Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
South Boulevard-Park Row, Dallas, TX 75215  (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Tamara Johns! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and founder of ExhaleTherapy, Wellness, and Consulting Services. I invite you on a journey to step into living in your authenticity. I know it can be exhausting to constantly have to paint a smile on your face or feel like you are trying to hold all the pieces of your life together. As a holistic therapist, I know you are more than your struggles and I want to support you in living your best life as determined by you. I specialize in supporting black and brown women who are dealing with anxiety, depression, life transitions, and burnout.
Hi, my name is Tamara Johns! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and founder of ExhaleTherapy, Wellness, and Consulting Services. I invite you on a journey to step into living in your authenticity. I know it can be exhausting to constantly have to paint a smile on your face or feel like you are trying to hold all the pieces of your life together. As a holistic therapist, I know you are more than your struggles and I want to support you in living your best life as determined by you. I specialize in supporting black and brown women who are dealing with anxiety, depression, life transitions, and burnout.
(346) 639-4362 View (346) 639-4362
Photo of Arsahy Alvizo, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Arsahy Alvizo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
South Boulevard-Park Row, Dallas, TX 75210  (Online Only)
Arsy is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas (81619). She graduated from The University of Texas at San Antonio with her Masters of Science in Mental Health Counseling. She provides a warm and welcoming environment in order for you to feel safe and open throughout the counseling process. She will work alongside you to navigate the presenting issues and find solutions that are authentic to you. Arsy employs a person-centered and CBT approach that focuses on helping the client identify and change thinking patterns that have a negative influence on their behavior and their emotional being.
Arsy is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas (81619). She graduated from The University of Texas at San Antonio with her Masters of Science in Mental Health Counseling. She provides a warm and welcoming environment in order for you to feel safe and open throughout the counseling process. She will work alongside you to navigate the presenting issues and find solutions that are authentic to you. Arsy employs a person-centered and CBT approach that focuses on helping the client identify and change thinking patterns that have a negative influence on their behavior and their emotional being.
(210) 791-6239 View (210) 791-6239
Photo of Deborah Utterback, LCSW-S, ESMHL, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deborah Utterback
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, ESMHL
Verified Verified
South Boulevard-Park Row, Dallas, TX 75217
Welcome to therapy—whatever brings you here, I'm glad you're here. In my practice, I employ brief therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and trauma-focused CBT across individual, family, and group settings. Currently, I'm a part-time therapist at Equest Therapeutic Horsemanship and run a private practice in McKinney. I bring extensive experience in individual and family therapy. Holding an Equine Specialist for Mental Health Learning (ESMHL) certification from PATH Intl, I specialize in Counseling using Equines. Horses authentically respond to us, guiding us toward a healthier existence by connecting and interacting with us.
Welcome to therapy—whatever brings you here, I'm glad you're here. In my practice, I employ brief therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and trauma-focused CBT across individual, family, and group settings. Currently, I'm a part-time therapist at Equest Therapeutic Horsemanship and run a private practice in McKinney. I bring extensive experience in individual and family therapy. Holding an Equine Specialist for Mental Health Learning (ESMHL) certification from PATH Intl, I specialize in Counseling using Equines. Horses authentically respond to us, guiding us toward a healthier existence by connecting and interacting with us.
(972) 299-3828 View (972) 299-3828
Photo of Jessica Gramling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Gramling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
South Boulevard-Park Row, Dallas, TX 75242
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome to my private practice! I'm so glad you found me. My goal as a therapist is to create a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore and grow. I believe that everyone has the ability to heal and change, and I'm here to support you on that journey. I understand that the thought of therapy might be daunting, but I promise to make it as easy and comfortable as possible. I like to keep things light and fun, while still being serious about your well-being. So, come as you are and let's get you started on feeling your best!
Welcome to my private practice! I'm so glad you found me. My goal as a therapist is to create a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore and grow. I believe that everyone has the ability to heal and change, and I'm here to support you on that journey. I understand that the thought of therapy might be daunting, but I promise to make it as easy and comfortable as possible. I like to keep things light and fun, while still being serious about your well-being. So, come as you are and let's get you started on feeling your best!
(903) 546-3730 View (903) 546-3730
Photo of Christopher Denzler, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Christopher Denzler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
South Boulevard-Park Row, Dallas, TX 75215  (Online Only)
Chris Denzler, MA, LPC, with therapy experience since 2013, working with individuals, such as children, men, women, couples, and families; focusing on trauma victims, individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, parenting, and relationship issues. I am a certified Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral therapist. In my experience, I have specialized in trauma, addiction, and relationship issues. I am a certified Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral therapist. In my experience, I have specialized in trauma, addiction, and relationship issues.
Chris Denzler, MA, LPC, with therapy experience since 2013, working with individuals, such as children, men, women, couples, and families; focusing on trauma victims, individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, parenting, and relationship issues. I am a certified Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral therapist. In my experience, I have specialized in trauma, addiction, and relationship issues. I am a certified Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral therapist. In my experience, I have specialized in trauma, addiction, and relationship issues.
(469) 778-4437 View (469) 778-4437
Photo of Tamara Cannon, PhD, Psychologist
Tamara Cannon
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Boulevard-Park Row, Dallas, TX 75215  (Online Only)
Life can be a beautiful, complicated, perplexing mess. You may feel like you have it together most of the time. However, there are stumbling blocks that keep you from truly being your best self. Your life may look good on paper, but you feel unsatisfied and caught up in the daily grind and an endless monotony. You may be in a season where are simply surviving and not thriving. If you can see yourself in any of these situations, therapy can help you address pressing life challenges and facilitate continuous growth.
Life can be a beautiful, complicated, perplexing mess. You may feel like you have it together most of the time. However, there are stumbling blocks that keep you from truly being your best self. Your life may look good on paper, but you feel unsatisfied and caught up in the daily grind and an endless monotony. You may be in a season where are simply surviving and not thriving. If you can see yourself in any of these situations, therapy can help you address pressing life challenges and facilitate continuous growth.
(214) 740-6190 View (214) 740-6190

Online Therapists

Photo of Amber Dumas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amber Dumas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75254  (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Amber, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker serving adults ages 18 and beyond in Vermont and Texas. I am currently based in Dallas, TX, I'm passionate about empowering individuals to lead fulfilling lives. With a focus on strength-based approaches, I believe in harnessing your innate resilience and capabilities to navigate life's challenges. My goal is to help you unlock your full potential and lead a more meaningful and authentic life.
Hello, I'm Amber, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker serving adults ages 18 and beyond in Vermont and Texas. I am currently based in Dallas, TX, I'm passionate about empowering individuals to lead fulfilling lives. With a focus on strength-based approaches, I believe in harnessing your innate resilience and capabilities to navigate life's challenges. My goal is to help you unlock your full potential and lead a more meaningful and authentic life.
(346) 258-7492 View (346) 258-7492
Photo of Tonya S. Fortenberry, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tonya S. Fortenberry
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75208  (Online Only)
My approach to therapy is collaborative, strength-based, and eclectic, utilizing a variety of evidence-based practices tailored to the needs of my clients.
If you are struggling with feelings of inadequacy, difficulty with making everyday decisions, a loss rather it be a person, career, marriage or a traumatic event, my desire is to provide a safe space where you find clarity, hope, and healing. The most important aspect of the therapeutic relationship is building a warm, genuine, non-judgmental connection. As a therapist, that is my goal. I believe when people sense that you genuinely care and respect them, they are more open to honestly sharing about themselves and participating in the process of improving their lives.
My approach to therapy is collaborative, strength-based, and eclectic, utilizing a variety of evidence-based practices tailored to the needs of my clients.
If you are struggling with feelings of inadequacy, difficulty with making everyday decisions, a loss rather it be a person, career, marriage or a traumatic event, my desire is to provide a safe space where you find clarity, hope, and healing. The most important aspect of the therapeutic relationship is building a warm, genuine, non-judgmental connection. As a therapist, that is my goal. I believe when people sense that you genuinely care and respect them, they are more open to honestly sharing about themselves and participating in the process of improving their lives.
(214) 949-4301 View (214) 949-4301
Photo of Crystal Nicole Gayle, PhD, Psychologist
Crystal Nicole Gayle
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75214
I am a licensed psychologist who enjoys working with children, adolescents, and adults. I use a strength-based, collaborative, and multicultural approach when I work with my clients. I believe in creating an honest and warm therapeutic environment while developing a strong rapport with each client or family as we work towards meeting their treatment goals. I utilize evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to help individuals become the best versions of themselves.
I am a licensed psychologist who enjoys working with children, adolescents, and adults. I use a strength-based, collaborative, and multicultural approach when I work with my clients. I believe in creating an honest and warm therapeutic environment while developing a strong rapport with each client or family as we work towards meeting their treatment goals. I utilize evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to help individuals become the best versions of themselves.
(972) 458-5478 View (972) 458-5478
Photo of Ying Zhao - Zen Counseling & Wellness, MA, LPC, LCDC, NCC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Zen Counseling & Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCDC, NCC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75204  (Online Only)
Person-Centered, Humanistic, Strength-Based, Solution-Based, and Person-Based Styles comprise the majority of my methodologies, which I utilize to support you in thriving on your strengths.
Greetings! I am Clara, and I am deeply committed to aiding others and derive satisfaction from providing something of value that enhances your existence. I assist people in overcoming daily and life challenges, including but not limited to anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, grief, LGBTQ issues, life transitions, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance use disorder (addiction), and trauma. I support the promotion of mental health, which includes psychological, emotional, social, and wellness dimensions, in order to assist people in improving their overall well-being.
Person-Centered, Humanistic, Strength-Based, Solution-Based, and Person-Based Styles comprise the majority of my methodologies, which I utilize to support you in thriving on your strengths.
Greetings! I am Clara, and I am deeply committed to aiding others and derive satisfaction from providing something of value that enhances your existence. I assist people in overcoming daily and life challenges, including but not limited to anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, grief, LGBTQ issues, life transitions, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance use disorder (addiction), and trauma. I support the promotion of mental health, which includes psychological, emotional, social, and wellness dimensions, in order to assist people in improving their overall well-being.
(972) 630-9688 View (972) 630-9688
Photo of Malia Mead -  Malia Mead, Calming Waters Counseling LLC, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Malia Mead, Calming Waters Counseling LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75254  (Online Only)
You know you feel stuck mentally, emotionally, physically or spiritually but aren’t sure where to start. Perhaps you are struggling with the relationships in your life. It is my goal to provide a safe environment for each client. I focus on the individual needs of each client with empathy, compassion, and understanding. I am a strength based therapist and focus on personal resiliency. We will focus on progress by taking small steps and embracing “little wins.” Together, we will challenge negative self-beliefs and work on developing your positive narrative that supports who you truly are so you can live your most authentic self.
You know you feel stuck mentally, emotionally, physically or spiritually but aren’t sure where to start. Perhaps you are struggling with the relationships in your life. It is my goal to provide a safe environment for each client. I focus on the individual needs of each client with empathy, compassion, and understanding. I am a strength based therapist and focus on personal resiliency. We will focus on progress by taking small steps and embracing “little wins.” Together, we will challenge negative self-beliefs and work on developing your positive narrative that supports who you truly are so you can live your most authentic self.
(281) 789-0899 View (281) 789-0899
Photo of Diamond Walker, MA, LPC, C-DBT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Diamond Walker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75287
As we take this journey, I will use a number of different modalities, including mindfulness and strength-based approaches to assist you in acquiring the necessary skills for effective mood management/regulation, confidence building, increased communication, and/or stress reduction.
Do you understand how a wound heals? Think about it. First, the pain needs to be acknowledged. Next, it needs to be tended to and stabilized. Then, the work of healing from within can begin. I believe in the significance of this understanding because, no matter what pains life may offer, we all possess an innate capacity to acknowledge, grow, and inspire change in our lives. We also need someone who is on our side, willing and committed to providing the conditions needed to feel safe and comfortable to express, explore, and heal from our struggles. Only then can we learn to lean into change.
As we take this journey, I will use a number of different modalities, including mindfulness and strength-based approaches to assist you in acquiring the necessary skills for effective mood management/regulation, confidence building, increased communication, and/or stress reduction.
Do you understand how a wound heals? Think about it. First, the pain needs to be acknowledged. Next, it needs to be tended to and stabilized. Then, the work of healing from within can begin. I believe in the significance of this understanding because, no matter what pains life may offer, we all possess an innate capacity to acknowledge, grow, and inspire change in our lives. We also need someone who is on our side, willing and committed to providing the conditions needed to feel safe and comfortable to express, explore, and heal from our struggles. Only then can we learn to lean into change.
(469) 382-4023 x102 View (469) 382-4023 x102
Photo of Robert Torrance Cale III - Whole Health Healing, LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Whole Health Healing, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75254  (Online Only)
I take a strength-based approach that tends to interweave both psychological tools and holistic practices, but meet each client where they are at.
You’re leaning in and putting in the effort, but for some reason, old habits keep coming up that hold you back. You are keeping those plates spinning, but you also feel like you’re spinning your wheels, and you’re drained from the effort. Now, most of the time, you’re left unsure how to get out of your rut or how to best fulfill your wants and needs.
I take a strength-based approach that tends to interweave both psychological tools and holistic practices, but meet each client where they are at.
You’re leaning in and putting in the effort, but for some reason, old habits keep coming up that hold you back. You are keeping those plates spinning, but you also feel like you’re spinning your wheels, and you’re drained from the effort. Now, most of the time, you’re left unsure how to get out of your rut or how to best fulfill your wants and needs.
(406) 407-9488 View (406) 407-9488
Photo of Peyton Freeman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Peyton Freeman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75219
My approach is warm, straightforward, non-judgmental, and strength-based.
If you're feeling overwhelmed by stress at work/home, struggling in your relationships, or battling addiction, know that you're not alone. As a therapist, I specialize in helping individuals just like you find clarity, healing, and meaningful change. Imagine waking up feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the day, and not weighed down by your thoughts and emotions. It may seem like a distant dream now, but it can be a reality. Change is possible, and I am here to support you every step of the way.
My approach is warm, straightforward, non-judgmental, and strength-based.
If you're feeling overwhelmed by stress at work/home, struggling in your relationships, or battling addiction, know that you're not alone. As a therapist, I specialize in helping individuals just like you find clarity, healing, and meaningful change. Imagine waking up feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the day, and not weighed down by your thoughts and emotions. It may seem like a distant dream now, but it can be a reality. Change is possible, and I am here to support you every step of the way.
(214) 225-3391 View (214) 225-3391
Photo of Amy L Curtis - Amy L. Curtis at Rooted Support and Counseling, PhD, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy L. Curtis at Rooted Support and Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75218  (Online Only)
Whether you have been to therapy before or whether you are searching for a therapist for the first time, you are welcome here. I have worked with individuals from every walk of life for 40 years. My approach is collaborative, respectful and strength-based.
Whether you have been to therapy before or whether you are searching for a therapist for the first time, you are welcome here. I have worked with individuals from every walk of life for 40 years. My approach is collaborative, respectful and strength-based.
(469) 351-1517 View (469) 351-1517

See more therapy options for South Boulevard-Park Row, Dallas

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.