Thistle Hofvendahl (they/them)

MSW, ASW 113666
Accepting Clients

I support teens, young adults, and parents with issues such as anxiety, exploring LGBTQ+ identities, and family issues.

Clinical Social Worker in Santa Cruz, CA
Supervised by Sara Anderson, LCSW

About My Clients

I love working with teens, young adults, and LGBTQ+ couples and families. I have advanced training in Climate Anxiety and supporting clients with trauma histories and ADHD.

My Background and Approach

I help teens navigate family conflict and attachment disruptions. When parents separate, a relative dies, or family dynamics shift as a natural part of getting older, teens experience feelings of anger, grief, and anxiety about how their roles and relationships are changing. I use narrative therapy, somatic and attachment-focused techniques, and expressive arts to support teens in understanding themselves and their relationships. My clients learn to identify and express emotions and develop healthy coping skills to use when they feel overwhelmed. As a result, their self esteem and communication improve and they feel less anxious. I help LGBTQ+ youth and families explore their identities and relationships. With a focus on improving communication, I help queer couples facing challenges such as family building or exploring relationship structures understand one another's perspective and reconnect with their shared values. My clients develop a deeper understanding of themselves.

My Personal Beliefs and Interests

You are the expert on your own lived experience. As a therapist I am here to support you as you deepen your relationship with yourself and explore the core values that connect you to who you want to be in the world. Therapy provides a container where you can gather new tools to address the challenges you’re facing and move towards a more joyful, connected way of life. I believe that healing happens in community and that as a mental health professional it is my responsibility to actively work towards collective liberation as well as supporting people with their personal growth journeys.

I offer online counseling in the following states:
I have experience with the following
  • Christianity
  • Interfaith
  • Multifaith

At A Glance

  • Experience: 4 years of practice
  • Rate: $150/session

Info

Email Thistle
573 Soquel Avenue
Santa Cruz, CA 95062

Reach out to Thistle