Q and A with Destiny Henkel

How would your clients describe you?

I am a warm, open-minded, and personable. I use a holistic approach and create a safe space for clients to process difficult thoughts and emotions.

Why did you become a therapist?

Throughout my life, I've had a special talent for forging deep connections with individuals, fostering an environment where they feel secure in exploring their thoughts and emotions. Guiding clients through tough experiences and emotions is deeply fulfilling, and witnessing their growth and progress is immensely rewarding.

What is your educational background?

When I was in my undergraduate program, I gravitated toward psychology with a focus on the impacts of trauma. Initially, I thought that I wanted to stay in the field of psychology because of how intrigued I was by the neuroscience aspects. Over time, I came to realize that I wanted to work directly with people who have been impacted by stress and trauma to connect and provide support for them. I chose social work because it had more focus on intersectionality when it comes to addressing mental health. I obtained my Masters in Social Work in 2020, and I've been working directly with teens and adults since then.

What insurance do you take?

Aetna, United Healthcare, Optum, Oxford, Oscar, and more. We are not in network with BCBS but we will provide you with a superbill that you can submit for reimbursement using your out of network benefits. You can see a full list of companies I'm in network with here.

What other professional experiences have you had?

I've worked in a variety of settings, including an in home therapy program for teens and families with significant mental health struggles. I have also worked in a community health setting where I served teens and adults struggling with a wide range of mental health issues.

What else should I know about you?

In my free time I enjoy reading non-fiction and true crime books, spending time with friends and my cat (Gnocci).

What is your approach to therapy?

I use empathy and active listening to ensure clients feel heard and understood. I help clients examine various thinking or behavioral patterns that are holding them back from living their best life. I provide gentle guidance and support as they navigate through challenging experiences, empowering them to explore and express themselves authentically.

I also utilize a somatic-focused and trauma-informed approach to care. Understanding the connection between mind and body is essential in order to sort through distorted thinking patterns that stem from stress and trauma. I believe that connecting to how emotions manifest in physical sensations can be foundational in sorting through distorted thinking patterns that stem from stress and trauma. I use this approach in addition to Accelerated Resolution Therapy, a transformative technique that helps clients accelerate their healing from previous trauma.