William Vesneski
Clinical Social Worker/Therapist -
I was drawn to psychotherapy and social work as a way to alleviate suffering. Throughout my 20 years of practice, I’ve aimed to help my clients live in a way that deeply aligns with their values and desires. While I have a general practice, I have a particular interest in working with people seeking freedom from anxiety and depression, those recovering from trauma, parents and children wanting to strengthen their relationships, and those moving to self-acceptance and pride around their sexual orientation and other identities.
Approach:
I have been deeply influenced by meditation and mindfulness, as well as Buddhist and existential psychology. I tend to focus on emotions and feelings in practice because I believe we can only change our lives after we fully understand how we feel about them, without shame and self-judgment. I am also committed to anti-racist and empowerment practice.The therapist-client relationship is the heart of therapy and must be grounded in trust, compassion, and a sense of safety. My relationships with clients reflect candid dialog and true engagement. My goal is to help clients hold themselves with kindness, challenge their assumptions about themselves, and move to a place of deep self-acceptance and strength.
Background:
I have been a social worker for more than 20 years and have an MSW and PhD from the University of Washington. Along with my therapy practice, I am a professor and Director of the Bachelor’s in Social Work program at the UW.More personally, I grew up outside New York City but have spent most of my adult life in the Pacific Northwest. I identify as a queer, white cis man. Outside of work, I have an 11 year old son and love spending time with my family, traveling, and being outdoors. I have hiked all over the west. I’m also in the process of learning Spanish – which I fear I may never master!
Skills and Expertise
Anxiety
Breakups
Depression
Emptiness
Family Conflict
Family of Origin Issues
Gay Issues
Isolation
Identity Issues
LGBTQ
Loss or Grief
Mens Issues and Problems
Relationship Issues
Stress
Trauma and PTSD
Treatment Orientation
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Contemplative
Existential
Humanistic
Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)
Psychodynamic
Self-Compassion
Modality
Family
Individuals
Group
Couples