Hannah Pasternak

I work with adolescents and adults of all ages to make tangible progress towards the life you envision for yourself

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Hannah Pasternak's style

Why Hannah Pasternak chose to be in the helping profession

I embarked on a path in the helping profession driven by an unwavering desire to give back to the very communities that supported and nurtured me during my formative years. As a child, I discovered a profound inclination toward assisting both vulnerable children and animals in need. This innate inclination laid the foundation for my future career in the human services field.

Growing up as a granddaughter to two Holocaust survivors, I was exposed from a tender age to the intricacies of the human experience—its trials, sorrows, and grief, but also its immense strength and resilience. Witnessing firsthand the transformative power of endurance and the unwavering spirit of my grandparents, I became acutely aware of the profound impact that compassion and support can have on an individual's life.

Guided by the wisdom passed down through generations, I embarked on my professional journey with a commitment to wholeheartedly serve my clients. In my role, I embrace each individual with unconditional positive regard, drawing upon the strength and knowledge bestowed upon me by my ancestors.

Through my work, I have had the privilege of being present for both the darkest and brightest moments of my clients' lives. It is during these deeply meaningful encounters that I have witnessed the triumph of the human spirit and the remarkable capacity for growth and transformation. By extending a compassionate hand and empathetic ear, I strive to provide solace, support, and guidance to those navigating their own unique paths.

Each day, I am humbled by the opportunity to contribute to the well-being and flourishing of individuals and communities alike. The decision to be part of the helping profession is not simply a career choice but a profound calling rooted in my personal experiences and the love and compassion I hold for humanity. It is a vocation that allows me to honor the legacy of resilience and strength instilled in me, while fostering hope, healing, and empowerment in the lives of those I have the privilege to serve.

My journey in the helping profession is driven by a deep-seated commitment to reciprocate the support I received from my communities in my own formative years. Inspired by the profound experiences of my grandparents and their indomitable spirit, I approach my work with unwavering compassion and empathy. It is my greatest honor to stand alongside individuals in their most challenging and triumphant moments, offering unwavering support and unconditional positive regard as they navigate their unique journeys of healing and growth.

Hannah Pasternak's approach

In therapy, I prioritize building a strong therapeutic relationship based on trust. With a directive and strengths-based approach, I am focused on goal attainment and solutions, while creating a safe and non-judgmental space for you to navigate life's challenges. My aim is to provide a supportive environment where authenticity and compassion flourish, enabling us to work together towards your self-defined goals. I firmly believe that you are the expert in your own life, and I utilize a strengths-based and skills-based approach to identify your concerns and develop a constructive plan for your healing and progress.

I have extensive experience working with various issues including ADHD, adolescent behavior, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, divorce, domestic violence, family conflict, identity exploration, trauma, PTSD, substance use, self-esteem, and grief. Drawing from a holistic and person-centered perspective, I integrate evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and solution-focused therapy to guide our work together.

What you can expect from sessions with Hannah Pasternak

Embarking on a journey to seek support for your current struggles is a testament to your strength and courage. As your therapist, I am dedicated to providing a non-judgmental, empathetic, and warm environment where we can explore life's challenges together. Our sessions will gradually introduce gentle challenges to expand your self-awareness and enhance your ability to navigate difficult moments, all while ensuring you feel supported and guided throughout the process.

I firmly believe in the power of connecting past experiences with our present difficulties, as it allows us to gain valuable insights and create an active plan for progress. Together, we will collaboratively develop a game plan that aligns with your goals and facilitates meaningful growth.

Transparency is an integral aspect of our therapeutic journey. I promise to be authentic and genuine with you, and I encourage you to reciprocate the same honesty. By fostering an environment of trust and open communication, we can work together to overcome obstacles, find clarity, and pave the way for positive change.

Hannah Pasternak's experience working with the Jewish community

Drawing upon my personal background within the Jewish community and being the granddaughter of two Holocaust survivors, I bring a deep understanding and connection to my work with Jewish clients from diverse backgrounds. It is a privilege for me to engage with individuals and delve into the ways in which their religion and culture shape their perspectives and experiences.

Through my experiences, I have developed a genuine love for connecting with the individuals I work with, seeking to grasp the intricate ways in which their religious and cultural identities influence their worldviews. By actively exploring these dimensions, I aim to create a therapeutic environment that resonates with their unique needs and honors their lived experiences.

My personal connection to the Jewish community allows me to approach our work together with a deep empathy and sensitivity, recognizing the historical and cultural factors that have shaped their lives. This foundation of understanding helps foster trust, enabling us to delve into the complexities of their individual journeys with greater insight and compassion.

I am committed to ensuring that my Jewish clients feel seen, heard, and understood throughout our therapeutic process. By weaving together my professional expertise and personal background, I strive to create a safe and inclusive space where individuals can explore their challenges, find healing, and embrace their authentic selves.

My experience working with the Jewish community is rooted in my own lived experiences and the connections I have forged within this vibrant and diverse community. By integrating cultural understanding and empathy, I aim to provide a therapeutic experience that validates the unique perspectives and experiences of my Jewish clients, while honoring the resilience and strength that characterize their collective history.

Hannah Pasternak's Book Recommendation Zone

• Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents
• Waking the Tiger
• Wounds into Wisdom : Healing Intergenerational Jewish Trauma
• Start Where You Are: A Journal for Self-Exploration

Approaches

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
• EMDR
• Motivational Interviewing
• Solution Focused Brief (SFBT)

Concerns

• Abuse/Violence
• Addiction
• ADHD
• Bereavement & Grief
• Body image
• Depression
• Divorce/Separation
• Drug/Substance Abuse
• Emotion regulation
• Gender Identity Issues
• LGBTQIA, gender, & sexuality topics
• Life purpose and meaning
• Mood Disorders
• Oppositional defiance disorder
• Personality issues & disorders
• Relationships
• Self-Harm/Suicidality
• Stress management
• Transitions & Change
• Trauma

7 years in practice

Licences

• LCSW. License number 107501

Degrees

• Master of Social Work by California State University, Fullerton 2019

Average costs per session

$150

Payment Methods

• Insurance
• Free consultation
• Cash
• Check
• Credit Card

Insurances

• Anthem
• BlueCross and BlueShield
• out of network