Photo of Kimberly M. Hines, LCSW-QS, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly M. Hines
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-QS, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brandon, FL 33509  (Online Only)
Some of the techniques I use in therapy sessions are Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Strength-Based therapies and Solution Focused.
In this journey called life, are you dealing with an unexpected crisis? Are you finding it difficult to deal with daily life stressors, a job loss, or the loss of a loved one? Are you struggling to find ways to cope with your grief/loss, health concerns and/or ongoing life transitions? Welcome to Life University where we are often unprepared for lessons being taught. Well, that’s where I come in to help you develop your coping skills and resources so that you are better equipped to manage the unexpected.
Some of the techniques I use in therapy sessions are Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Strength-Based therapies and Solution Focused.
In this journey called life, are you dealing with an unexpected crisis? Are you finding it difficult to deal with daily life stressors, a job loss, or the loss of a loved one? Are you struggling to find ways to cope with your grief/loss, health concerns and/or ongoing life transitions? Welcome to Life University where we are often unprepared for lessons being taught. Well, that’s where I come in to help you develop your coping skills and resources so that you are better equipped to manage the unexpected.
(813) 212-6745 View (813) 212-6745
Photo of Kaffie Wilcoxon, LMHC, CAP, Counselor
Kaffie Wilcoxon
Counselor, LMHC, CAP
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33705  (Online Only)
Cognative Behavioral Therapy, Person Centered Therapy, Strength-Based Therapy, Motivational Therapy are a few of the therapies that can guide you to your achievement goals.
All of us have dreams, aspirations and needs. To be successful, we need to have the mental and physical needs taken care of. Having goals and plans help guide us to the achievement of our goals.
Cognative Behavioral Therapy, Person Centered Therapy, Strength-Based Therapy, Motivational Therapy are a few of the therapies that can guide you to your achievement goals.
All of us have dreams, aspirations and needs. To be successful, we need to have the mental and physical needs taken care of. Having goals and plans help guide us to the achievement of our goals.
(727) 334-2662 View (727) 334-2662
Photo of Shon Brown, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shon Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32256
Are you feeling helpless, out of balance, not like yourself, afraid of life changes, living, or losing yourself, struggling at school, work, or with your purpose, experiencing nightmares and/or thoughts you are not normally having such as suicide? Please partner with us to live again, reduce anxiety, isolation, and face fears. We help individuals who are experiencing the following: considering marriage or divorce, life transitions, lost of interests, drained by military life, grief, need support to comfort for elderly parents, sexual abuse, trauma, DCF involvement, and/or struggling with school, work, finding purpose.
Are you feeling helpless, out of balance, not like yourself, afraid of life changes, living, or losing yourself, struggling at school, work, or with your purpose, experiencing nightmares and/or thoughts you are not normally having such as suicide? Please partner with us to live again, reduce anxiety, isolation, and face fears. We help individuals who are experiencing the following: considering marriage or divorce, life transitions, lost of interests, drained by military life, grief, need support to comfort for elderly parents, sexual abuse, trauma, DCF involvement, and/or struggling with school, work, finding purpose.
(904) 441-5156 View (904) 441-5156
Photo of Norlan McKenzie, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Norlan McKenzie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lutz, FL 33549  (Online Only)
I utilize mostly strength-based, cognitive behavior, psychodynamic, and mindfulness techniques with individuals experiencing trauma, suicidal ideation, grief, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, anger, and relationship conflicts.
Are you or a loved one dealing with stress, trauma, or struggling to handle life's challenges? Are you facing problematic conflicts in your relationships? I'm available to assist in establishing the necessary strategies for handling these issues, focusing on the here and now. You will be in good hands because you'll be supported and guided with care and professionalism and empowered with the tools to reclaim control of your life. Let's get started on achieving your personal goals and growth.
I utilize mostly strength-based, cognitive behavior, psychodynamic, and mindfulness techniques with individuals experiencing trauma, suicidal ideation, grief, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, anger, and relationship conflicts.
Are you or a loved one dealing with stress, trauma, or struggling to handle life's challenges? Are you facing problematic conflicts in your relationships? I'm available to assist in establishing the necessary strategies for handling these issues, focusing on the here and now. You will be in good hands because you'll be supported and guided with care and professionalism and empowered with the tools to reclaim control of your life. Let's get started on achieving your personal goals and growth.
(813) 670-7024 View (813) 670-7024
Photo of Nathaly Sanchez, MS, RMHCI
Nathaly Sanchez
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS, RMHCI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33183
I use behavioral activation in addition to other evidence based treatments such as strength-based CBT and mindfulness to promote positive growth.
As a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, my client's safety and well-being are a high priority. I am often described as an honest, warm, and welcoming individual. Through therapeutic interventions, I am able to assist with symptoms of various mood disorders, learning new coping skills, dealing with self-harm, alleviating stress, and cognitive reframing among other important issues. Depending on my client's need and therapeutic preference, I am able to provide an individualized treatment plan to best assist their current mental health requirements.
I use behavioral activation in addition to other evidence based treatments such as strength-based CBT and mindfulness to promote positive growth.
As a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, my client's safety and well-being are a high priority. I am often described as an honest, warm, and welcoming individual. Through therapeutic interventions, I am able to assist with symptoms of various mood disorders, learning new coping skills, dealing with self-harm, alleviating stress, and cognitive reframing among other important issues. Depending on my client's need and therapeutic preference, I am able to provide an individualized treatment plan to best assist their current mental health requirements.
(786) 713-2527 View (786) 713-2527
Photo of Patrick Smith, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patrick Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palm Harbor, FL 34683
Patrick’s counseling approach is solution focused and utilizes various therapies such as: Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectic Behavioral (DBT), Strength-Based, Person-Centered, Rational Emotive Behavioral (REBT), Psychodynamic, Trauma Informed, and Acceptance Centered (ACT).
Patrick has more than eight years of experience in the mental health and addictions field, having worked in many different settings with diverse populations. Patrick is a veteran of the U.S. Coast Guard and the U.S. Army, where he served multiple combat deployments. His areas of clinical expertise include: co-occurring disorders, trauma, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, male sexual trauma, depression, anxiety, substance abuse/addictions, anger management, crisis intervention, childhood issues, grief/loss, couples and families.
Patrick’s counseling approach is solution focused and utilizes various therapies such as: Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectic Behavioral (DBT), Strength-Based, Person-Centered, Rational Emotive Behavioral (REBT), Psychodynamic, Trauma Informed, and Acceptance Centered (ACT).
Patrick has more than eight years of experience in the mental health and addictions field, having worked in many different settings with diverse populations. Patrick is a veteran of the U.S. Coast Guard and the U.S. Army, where he served multiple combat deployments. His areas of clinical expertise include: co-occurring disorders, trauma, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, male sexual trauma, depression, anxiety, substance abuse/addictions, anger management, crisis intervention, childhood issues, grief/loss, couples and families.
(727) 240-2279 View (727) 240-2279
Photo of Lauren Roberts, LMHC
Lauren Roberts
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33618
Lauren’s approach is trauma informed along with utilizing skills and techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Person-Centered therapy with a strength-based approach along with Mindfulness-Based Interventions.
Lauren truly enjoys working with adults, couples, and children ages two and older, along with providing parental support through a love and logic approach. Lauren enjoys working with a variety of issues ranging from Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD), Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD), Adjustment Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Anxiety, Self-Esteem, Depression and Couple’s Counseling.
Lauren’s approach is trauma informed along with utilizing skills and techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Person-Centered therapy with a strength-based approach along with Mindfulness-Based Interventions.
Lauren truly enjoys working with adults, couples, and children ages two and older, along with providing parental support through a love and logic approach. Lauren enjoys working with a variety of issues ranging from Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD), Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD), Adjustment Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Anxiety, Self-Esteem, Depression and Couple’s Counseling.
(727) 732-4549 View (727) 732-4549
Photo of Dr. Jacqueline Clarke Jemmott, PhD, LMFT, MCAP, BC-TMH, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Jacqueline Clarke Jemmott
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, MCAP, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pensacola, FL 32503
Hello, congrats on taking the first step in your journey to renew your life and/or relationship with wellness! No matter the challenges, there is an array of hope to rejuvenate plus reignite your strength and dream to live the life you desire. Together we can make it happen, by engaging in strength-based collaborative therapy. I am a Licensed and Board Certified Tele-mental Health provider, credentialed to offer traditional mental health and/or behavioral health therapy using computer video and/or telephone counseling. I look forward to working with you in achieving your wellness goals.
Hello, congrats on taking the first step in your journey to renew your life and/or relationship with wellness! No matter the challenges, there is an array of hope to rejuvenate plus reignite your strength and dream to live the life you desire. Together we can make it happen, by engaging in strength-based collaborative therapy. I am a Licensed and Board Certified Tele-mental Health provider, credentialed to offer traditional mental health and/or behavioral health therapy using computer video and/or telephone counseling. I look forward to working with you in achieving your wellness goals.
(954) 874-8761 View (954) 874-8761
Photo of Shaquetta Williams, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shaquetta Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waitlist for new clients
My approach integrates CBT and strength-based therapies to empower clients.
Are you struggling with a recent life transition or adjustment? Whether you're a new mom, going through a new marriage, a divorce/separation, a recent move, or career change, I am here to help you on your journey. I specialize in helping ages 6 and up navigate life transitions and adjustments, anxiety, and depression. I help women process emotional abuse, intimate partner violence, and delve deeper into self-worth. In addition, I work with military and veteran families who feel alone in their walk of life whether it’s navigating pcs, being a caregiver, or living with someone who struggles with PTSD/other mental health concerns.
My approach integrates CBT and strength-based therapies to empower clients.
Are you struggling with a recent life transition or adjustment? Whether you're a new mom, going through a new marriage, a divorce/separation, a recent move, or career change, I am here to help you on your journey. I specialize in helping ages 6 and up navigate life transitions and adjustments, anxiety, and depression. I help women process emotional abuse, intimate partner violence, and delve deeper into self-worth. In addition, I work with military and veteran families who feel alone in their walk of life whether it’s navigating pcs, being a caregiver, or living with someone who struggles with PTSD/other mental health concerns.
(256) 292-9071 View (256) 292-9071
Photo of undefined - Margaret Andem APRN, LCSW, APRN, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Margaret Andem APRN, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, APRN, LCSW
Verified Verified
Marianna, FL 32446
I provide individual, couples, family, group therapy, medication management to children, adolescents, adults in the areas of depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, adjustment disorders, personality disorders, addictions, dually-diagnosed, parenting, family issues, childhood issues, adolescent issues, behavior, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, loss/grief/bereavement, women's issues, relationships, self-esteem, self-image, codependency, dependency, anger management, stress management, time management, life skills, work issues. I provide psychoeducational groups and professional trainings. My focus in working with clients is to help them gain and maintain control in their lives despite past or present issues, and to deal with those issues appropriately.
I provide individual, couples, family, group therapy, medication management to children, adolescents, adults in the areas of depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, adjustment disorders, personality disorders, addictions, dually-diagnosed, parenting, family issues, childhood issues, adolescent issues, behavior, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, loss/grief/bereavement, women's issues, relationships, self-esteem, self-image, codependency, dependency, anger management, stress management, time management, life skills, work issues. I provide psychoeducational groups and professional trainings. My focus in working with clients is to help them gain and maintain control in their lives despite past or present issues, and to deal with those issues appropriately.
(850) 573-2233 View (850) 573-2233
Photo of undefined - Journey Pure Outpatient Addiction Therapies, Alcohol, & Drugs, Marriage & Family Therapist
Journey Pure Outpatient Addiction Therapies
Marriage & Family Therapist, Alcohol, & Drugs
Verified Verified
Melbourne, FL 32901
The process is simple. It starts with a friendly conversation to see if you'd be a good fit. You deserve treatment that actually helps you get your life back on track (for good). JourneyPure is backed by 6K+ success stories and hundreds of positive reviews online.
The process is simple. It starts with a friendly conversation to see if you'd be a good fit. You deserve treatment that actually helps you get your life back on track (for good). JourneyPure is backed by 6K+ success stories and hundreds of positive reviews online.
(321) 587-3794 View (321) 587-3794
Photo of Crystal Adams, Lcsw , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Crystal Adams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Lcsw
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32202
Thank you for visiting my profile ! I look forward to connecting with you ! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Therapist with over 15 years of experience as a helping professional . In life we often face challenges that require help outside of ourselves. Problems like depression, anxiety, chronic illness, pre-marital issues, divorce, trauma, grief and many other types of problems life transitions that are sometimes difficult to overcome without professional help. My mission is to help you move through these problems to promote overall wellness, balance and contentment.
Thank you for visiting my profile ! I look forward to connecting with you ! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Therapist with over 15 years of experience as a helping professional . In life we often face challenges that require help outside of ourselves. Problems like depression, anxiety, chronic illness, pre-marital issues, divorce, trauma, grief and many other types of problems life transitions that are sometimes difficult to overcome without professional help. My mission is to help you move through these problems to promote overall wellness, balance and contentment.
(904) 901-6962 View (904) 901-6962
Photo of Jessi Holesko - Rivers Of Hope Counseling, LMFT, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jessi Holesko - Rivers Of Hope Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082  (Online Only)
Hi! My name is Jessi and I am here for all of your therapeutic needs! Many of our current ‘issues’ are deep rooted within ourselves, coming from relationships and environments from long ago, and up until today. Together we can explore this and figure out the best way for you to move forward. There is never any judgement here, I have worked with people of all ages, backgrounds, faiths, lifestyles, and classes. I like to keep things positive, many of my clients have said that therapy with me feels more comfortable and easier than they expected.
Hi! My name is Jessi and I am here for all of your therapeutic needs! Many of our current ‘issues’ are deep rooted within ourselves, coming from relationships and environments from long ago, and up until today. Together we can explore this and figure out the best way for you to move forward. There is never any judgement here, I have worked with people of all ages, backgrounds, faiths, lifestyles, and classes. I like to keep things positive, many of my clients have said that therapy with me feels more comfortable and easier than they expected.
(904) 872-8468 View (904) 872-8468
Photo of Elizabeth Watson, MSW, LCSW, QS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Watson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, QS
Verified Verified
Tallahassee, FL 32308
We provide short term in-person and/or online therapy with a history of proven results. We strive to meet you where you are and help you meet the goals that you set in an atmosphere and at a pace that is comfortable for you. ABetterWayTally.Com
We provide short term in-person and/or online therapy with a history of proven results. We strive to meet you where you are and help you meet the goals that you set in an atmosphere and at a pace that is comfortable for you. ABetterWayTally.Com
(850) 757-8366 View (850) 757-8366
Photo of Lorri S Parker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lorri S Parker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33647
If you are feeling stuck and ready for a change...If you've tried many other forms of therapy and are ready to give up...If you feel no one understands or cares... then give me a call. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been a counselor in the state of FL since 1995. I was born and raised in the Midwest where I received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Education and a Master's Degree in Social Work.
If you are feeling stuck and ready for a change...If you've tried many other forms of therapy and are ready to give up...If you feel no one understands or cares... then give me a call. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been a counselor in the state of FL since 1995. I was born and raised in the Midwest where I received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Education and a Master's Degree in Social Work.
(727) 308-6361 View (727) 308-6361
Photo of Andrea J Garwood, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Andrea J Garwood
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32803
Over 25 years working with individuals and families. Over 18 years providing supervision to other mental health professionals and interns. My goal is to help you resolve emotional trauma or confusion, in a compassionate and non judgmental way. I am exp. in working with individuals coping with life-altering circumstances and illness, mood and anxiety disorders, life transitions, recovery, grief and loss, relationship stressors, and spiritual crisis. I also specialize in relationship counseling, trauma and recovery issues such as sexual abuse. I am experienced serving those with medical issues-HIV/AIDS, Breast cancer, PTSD and phobias. I'm also experienced serving military families and veterans.
Over 25 years working with individuals and families. Over 18 years providing supervision to other mental health professionals and interns. My goal is to help you resolve emotional trauma or confusion, in a compassionate and non judgmental way. I am exp. in working with individuals coping with life-altering circumstances and illness, mood and anxiety disorders, life transitions, recovery, grief and loss, relationship stressors, and spiritual crisis. I also specialize in relationship counseling, trauma and recovery issues such as sexual abuse. I am experienced serving those with medical issues-HIV/AIDS, Breast cancer, PTSD and phobias. I'm also experienced serving military families and veterans.
(407) 583-6176 View (407) 583-6176
Photo of Jennifer Kronzeniowski, MA,LPC, LMHC, MCAP, CCS, SCL, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Kronzeniowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA,LPC, LMHC, MCAP, CCS, SCL
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Myers, FL 33916
Achieving goals becomes easier when they’re meaningful and connected to a reason and purpose — your “why.” When you connect your goal to a “why” a few things happen: You become hyper-focused on the goal by eliminating distractions or other tasks that are not in alignment with your desired outcome. Your vision and ideas become easier to outline, understand, and communicate because you’re intentionally focusing on the reason you want to do something and how it will impact you. It becomes easier to decide what you should and should not be doing because your priorities are connected to a purpose.
Achieving goals becomes easier when they’re meaningful and connected to a reason and purpose — your “why.” When you connect your goal to a “why” a few things happen: You become hyper-focused on the goal by eliminating distractions or other tasks that are not in alignment with your desired outcome. Your vision and ideas become easier to outline, understand, and communicate because you’re intentionally focusing on the reason you want to do something and how it will impact you. It becomes easier to decide what you should and should not be doing because your priorities are connected to a purpose.
(239) 282-4437 View (239) 282-4437
Photo of Laura Anne Pasker, LMHC, LCPC, Counselor
Laura Anne Pasker
Counselor, LMHC, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palm Harbor, FL 34684
Waitlist for new clients
Seeking help can be one of the most rewarding decisions you can make. It is your challenges that help you to facilitate change, and through that change you come closer to your most authentic self. Laura believes in partnering with you during the course of therapy, as building trust and rapport is essential to the therapeutic process. Developing treatment goals, while on your journey of self-discovery, is a collaborative effort. With over 14 years of experience in mental health, Laura is experienced in working with individuals, couples, and families in a variety of treatment settings.
Seeking help can be one of the most rewarding decisions you can make. It is your challenges that help you to facilitate change, and through that change you come closer to your most authentic self. Laura believes in partnering with you during the course of therapy, as building trust and rapport is essential to the therapeutic process. Developing treatment goals, while on your journey of self-discovery, is a collaborative effort. With over 14 years of experience in mental health, Laura is experienced in working with individuals, couples, and families in a variety of treatment settings.
(716) 325-1429 View (716) 325-1429
Photo of undefined - Christa Moody, MS, LMHC, NCC, CIMHP, MS, LMHC, NCC, CIMHP, Counselor
Christa Moody, MS, LMHC, NCC, CIMHP
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC, CIMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pensacola, FL 32501
If you are looking for an experienced, compassionate, and non-judgemental therapist give me a call. I have worked with an array of people and problems in my 24 years of working as a mental health professional. My counseling approach is eclectic and individualized to meet each client's needs because although we are all connected we certainly are all not alike. I am always supportive but I also believe in challenging my clients when appropriate. In the past, I have specialized in working with adults with dual diagnoses, families and couples, exceptional students in the public school setting, and even forensic treatment.
If you are looking for an experienced, compassionate, and non-judgemental therapist give me a call. I have worked with an array of people and problems in my 24 years of working as a mental health professional. My counseling approach is eclectic and individualized to meet each client's needs because although we are all connected we certainly are all not alike. I am always supportive but I also believe in challenging my clients when appropriate. In the past, I have specialized in working with adults with dual diagnoses, families and couples, exceptional students in the public school setting, and even forensic treatment.
(850) 424-1144 View (850) 424-1144
Photo of Evelyn Zamora, MS, LMHC, NCC
Evelyn Zamora
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312  (Online Only)
I am a licensed mental health counselor that is also National Board Certified. I have worked with clients of diverse ages and cultural backgrounds including adults in outpatient settings, youth and families in community-based programs and individuals in the jail system. I have experience treating addiction, grief, trauma, depression, anxiety and relationship issues.
I am a licensed mental health counselor that is also National Board Certified. I have worked with clients of diverse ages and cultural backgrounds including adults in outpatient settings, youth and families in community-based programs and individuals in the jail system. I have experience treating addiction, grief, trauma, depression, anxiety and relationship issues.
(786) 540-0136 View (786) 540-0136
Strength-Based Therapists

How does strength-based therapy work?

During strength-based therapy sessions, the therapist will ask about an individual’s experiences of stress, pain, or trauma with the goal of orienting the client to view themselves as a survivor rather than a victim, and focusing on their strengths rather than on their weaknesses. In framing a client’s personal narrative along these lines, the therapist and client work together to identify existing skills that can be harnessed.

Is strength-based therapy evidence-based?

Strength-based therapy is an evidence-based treatment that has been studied extensively and shown to be effective across domains. The treatment has been found to be particularly effective in helping individuals who are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and other mental health concerns. Strength-based therapy has been used by therapists to help clients for more than 60 years.

How long does strength-based therapy last?

There’s no precise timeline for strength-based therapy. The duration of treatment depends on the individual’s specific needs and goals and the severity of their concerns. Some individuals may find they achieve their therapeutic goals quickly, while others might benefit from ongoing support and guidance in order to continue progressing.

How effective is strength-based therapy?

Clinical research and decades of practice have shown strength-based therapy to be an effective treatment to improve mental health and well-being for many conditions. The treatment can engender a sense of connection and collaboration between the therapist and the individual, fostering a positive therapeutic relationship. For individuals with narcissistic tendencies, strength-based therapy may be less effective, as the focus on the individual’s strengths may undermine the work needed to honestly assess the challenges the individual faces.