COUNSELORS & STAFF
Tamara Vitela, LCSW
Murray
Therapy can be a dynamic experience creating hope and energy. However, facing challenges and grieving losses we inevitably face is a powerful step in moving toward a more satisfying present. I view therapy as a collaboration in working with you to create your transformation and growth. Our past experiences shape our view of ourselves and in turn our potential in the future. I hope to assist you to "re-author" the stories you have about yourself that do not serve a positive purpose and replace them with new stories, skills and a vision that do.
I enjoy working with individuals, families and couples going through life transitions, relationship issues particularly around unresolved childhood abuse affecting adult growth and connection to others and also faith based transitions. My main approaches include cognitive-behavioral therapy; extinguishing negative thought patterns, psychodynamic; how past events and beliefs can create your present, guided imagery; relaxation techniques and narrative therapy; understanding our stories and how they shape us. I also provide services focused on all kinds of relationships; finding ways to create more satisfying interactions, communication and connection within all important relationships.
Work experience and training includes community mental health, substance abuse prevention and recovery, Federal and local employee assistance programs, adult adoptee issues including identity formation and search and reunion issues, addressing and transforming childhood and other abuse through understanding trauma and ways to transcend it using both talk and brain / body oriented intervention.
Tamara received her B.S. degree in Psychology from the University of Utah, her Masters in Social Work from the University of Washington and completed a Fellowship at the Menninger Clinic focused on trauma and attachment. Tamara is a native Utahn familiar with all things Utah and returned to Utah after spending twenty years in the Metro DC area. Tamara enjoys spending time with her husband, daughter and a loveable furball dog.