About My Practice

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Hi! I'm Jessica Padnick, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) providing online therapy to residents throughout California and Oregon.

My practice is founded on the belief that much of our distress—like anxiety, relational conflict, and depression—stems from the friction between societal expectations and our individual desires.

I create a compassionate, non-judgmental space where we explore these pressures and the ingrained patterns that keep you from achieving an authentic life rooted in your own personal values.

I specialize in evidence-based methods like EMDR, ACT, and EFT to help adults overcome trauma and persistent emotional challenges.

How I Can Help

I’m committed to helping you navigate past life’s external pressures and guiding you toward a stronger and more empowered sense of self. Together, we will work to identify your core values and actively build a self that embodies them, helping you shed the expectations that lead to conflict, stress, anxiety, and depression. I’m here to support you in defining success and well-being on your own authentic terms.

When I’m not practicing therapy, I enjoy hiking with my dog, playing tennis, and hitting the heavy bag at the gym. 

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My Approach

I use evidence-based models flexibly, tailoring them to your unique needs and goals. We won't just talk about problems; we will actively learn and practice strategies for lasting change. These are some of the approaches I specialize in and find effective for my clients. 

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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

CBT helps clients identify unhelpful thought patterns that contribute to emotional distress and behavioral issues. This therapy can help modify negative thinking and improve overall functioning, commonly treating depression and anxiety.

Acceptance & Commitment Therapy

ACT emphasizes acceptance of thoughts and feelings and a commitment to behavior change
driven by personal values. The goal
is to develop psychological flexibility, enabling clients to pursue a meaningful life even in the presence of difficult emotions.

Emotionally-Focused Therapy

EFT is a structured method primarily focused on emotions and attachment needs within close relationships. It helps couples or families identify and understand the negative interaction cycles that create conflict. It can help in creating a secure emotional bond and promoting new, positive relational interactions.

Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing

EMDR is a specialized approach that helps the brain process traumatic or distressing memories.
This structured technique assists
in the desensitization of emotional responses linked to past events. It is highly effective in treating Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) by reducing the intensity of intrusive symptoms and emotional reactivity.

Professional Experience & Qualifications

I received my Bachelor of Arts from University of California, Berkeley, and went on to earn my Master of Social Work from Portland State University.

My clinical experience spans work with young adults (18+), adults, couples, and elders (65+), with specialized training in complex trauma and anxiety management.

My specializations include:

  • Trauma Recovery (Using EMDR)

  • Anxiety Management & Social Anxiety

  • Couples Counseling (EFT Focus)

  • Stress and Coping Skills for professionals

  • Substance Use Counseling & Relapse Prevention

  • Sex-Positive Therapy & Relationship Diversity

  • Improving Self-Worth and Self-Criticism

I am licensed to practice telehealth counseling in the states of:

  • California (LCSW 124545)

  • Oregon (LCSW L11516)

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Let’s build a life that
feels like yours

Together, we can reclaim your authentic sense of self and redefine goals on your own terms. If you’re ready to construct a secure, value-rooted life, I’d love to connect.

Schedule a Call