Janna Foster, LPC
Clinical Director
I help my clients feel comfortable and safe by allowing them to determine the pace of our sessions. I wait until I have gotten to know my clients before pushing or challenging them. I understand that therapy can be intimidating. I like to build rapport and make sure my clients are comfortable with me and that I understand their style before getting into the nitty gritty.
SPECIALITIES INCLUDE BUT NOT LIMITED TO:
Anxiety, Family Issues, Parenting, Severe Mental Illness for Clients/Families
Meet Janna
Therapeutic Style + Approach
What is one thing you wish all clients knew about starting therapy?
I wish all clients knew that therapy is based on their needs. Clients should feel comfortable voicing those needs, asking questions, and always have a say in the way that therapy looks for them. All therapists have their own style, but my job is to give individualized treatment, based on what works best for my clients.
Personal Touch + Personality
How would you describe yourself outside of your role as a therapist?
Outside of work I would be described as being confident, sarcastic, and honest as well as awkward, loyal, and empathetic. I am human and love to remind people of that by admitting my mistakes and laughing at myself. I am a mother, wife, daughter, and friend and try my best to balance those roles effectively.
WORKING WITH CLIENTS
How do you tailor your methods to meet the unique needs of each client?
I tailor my methods to meet unique needs through open and honest communication that is established when my clients know and trust me. I respect how important my role is in this relationship. So once that mutual respect is created, I just need to ask what their needs are.
Therapy Philosophy
What’s a common myth about therapy you wish you could debunk?
A common myth about therapy is that you need to have a significant life event to be in therapy. My clients come to therapy for many different reasons including help with communication, to boost confidence, to prepare for life transitions, and even to learn more about themselves. Of course some people come for significant life events and struggles as well. I am partial, but I believe everyone can benefit from therapy.
Personal Well-Being + Self-Care
What’s one self-care tip you often recommend to clients?
One self care tip I recommend is for my clients to discover their happy place, happy music, or happy activities. The things that bring joy. Then we can start incorporating those things into our daily lives. That can look like driving by the beach with the windows open, listening to and singing a favorite song (the louder, the better), or finding time to learn how to paint.
Final Thoughts + Encouragement
What would you say to someone who is nervous about starting therapy?
If you are nervous about starting therapy, it is important to know that most people are nervous when they start therapy. It is intimidating to make the call, schedule the appointment, and start that first session. I see the strength necessary to take those first steps to start up therapy. Let’s celebrate that and get to work on being the best version of yourself.
