Barnes Anita Lcsw

I just wanted to take the time to acknowledge and thank Anita Barnes for playing a critical role in an important life change for me. I was navigating a serious illness while simultaneously trying to maintain a challenging and untenable career. I had been advised by doctors, friends, etc to take time off, however, this felt inconceivable to me for many reasons. I was spirally into increasing stress and it was taking a toll on me physically, mentally and emotionally. Anita was able to artfully and empathetically help me tease out this whole situation and dismantle all of the blocks which had been preventing me from taking the steps I needed to take care of myself. I went from feeling that a choice was impossible to being fully empowered to make this important decision. Anita is extremely insightful, compassionate and skilled as a therapist and I would highly recommend her to anyone who is hoping for a trusting perspective on how to work through any challenges. Thank you, Anita!

After making a complete mess of my life and after running from feeling emotions for many years… I finally made enough of a mess to have to deal with myself. And I found Anita Barnes. She is covered by my Anthem Blue Cross and my EAP program at work (both of which i realize i am super fortunate and privileged to have. so grateful).
In only 4 sessions with Anita, I have been able to break through some serious patterns of anxiety and avoidance. In my first session, Anita noticed that my shoulders were up to my ears the whole time and I didn’t breathe normally. She gave me some breathing exercises along with talk therapy. She can do any kind of therapy and has been doing it for 20 years, but also is based in Gestalt, which has body components. Because I have not felt inside my body for years, I needed someone that could integrate both. Anita does the perfect blend-​talking and reflecting and also noticing the body but not devoting a ton of the session to it. I have tried going to a somatic therapist once and that was way too body based for me because i am so out of touch with my body that i was frustrated when they asked me where i felt stuff and i just felt numb. anita reminds me to breathe, she has me working on identifying my emotions. my anxiety has gone down significantly, i am going to keep going to anita, who is supportive and challenges me. she doesn’t give advice… apparently in speaking i express my own advice that she reflects back to me. I love her…
also, i was looking for a woman of color therapist, which she is. she has been doing this for 20 years.