Julie Barzal, LICSW, LISW

Julie Barzal is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker who focuses on helping people manage stress, anxiety, depression, and relationship strain. She uses straightforward, practical techniques to help clients feel more capable. Julie aims to make the first steps into therapy feel understandable and doable.

She combines Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and client-centered approaches. Sessions often include identifying unhelpful thinking patterns, practicing concrete coping skills, and clarifying personal values to guide change. Julie also draws on emotionally focused work when relationships and intimacy are central concerns.

Julie has seven years of professional experience and holds LICSW and LISW credentials. Her background includes work with adults and teens on issues such as grief, compassion fatigue, addictions, blended family concerns, parenting stress, and ADHD. She emphasizes listening, respect for identity, and a strengths-based approach in each session.

In meetings she prioritizes clear, manageable steps. Clients can expect practical exercises, homework they can try between sessions, and a steady focus on what matters most to them. Julie encourages direct conversation about goals and progress so therapy stays relevant.

Outside of clinical work she points to life experience that shapes her perspective. She values cultural humility and gender and identity inclusion. That outlook guides how she supports people through life changes, chronic illness, caregiver stress, and other complex challenges.

Therapeutic approaches for online care

Julie commonly uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help people identify and change unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns; this approach is often useful for anxiety, depression, and anger. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy is another focus and helps clients clarify values and take meaningful action even when difficult feelings are present. She also draws on client-centered methods that prioritize listening and the client's own goals.

Choosing the right approach is a collaborative process. The therapist will talk with each person about their goals, preferences, and what has or hasn't worked before. Together they try methods that fit the person and adjust the plan as progress and needs change.

Online formats include video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging. Video lets people work face-to-face when schedules allow. Phone sessions can be a good option when bandwidth is limited or a shorter check-in is needed. Live chat and text messaging make it easier to keep momentum between appointments and fit brief conversations into a busy day. These options aim to make therapy more flexible and easier to use alongside everyday life.