Therapist
Background:
Viktor has been working in the mental health field in various capacities for the past 12 years. Across this time Viktor held positions as a crisis counselor, case manager, private practice practicum student, substance abuse counselor, integrated health facilitator, and researcher. Viktor is currently completing their doctoral program at Virginia Commonwealth University. Viktor attended the University of Baltimore where they obtained their Masters in Applied Psychology. As well as attended the University of Maryland Baltimore County where they double majored in Psychology and Sociology. Viktor, as a therapist hopes to walk with clients as they find the ability to cope effectively with daily stressors, life’s challenges, and ultimately to persevere and find successes in ways that are meaningful to themselves.
Viktor began their career after working as a crisis counselor in a non-profit in Baltimore City, to providing case management for adults (ages 18-65) with severe distress from their psychological conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder I, a mood disorders, also in the non-profit sector. After working in this position for several years, Viktor saw themselves gravitating toward experiences within the private sector and was selected to join a practicum in a private practice outside of Baltimore City, where they were able to work with clients ranging from the ages of 13-50, with an emphasis on substance use, explosive disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorders. This experience enabled Viktor to gain critical skills in using advanced theories such as cognitive exposure therapies and more intensive cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). In this setting Viktor was first exposed to substance use as a primary issue for several clients which drew Viktor to this pursuit over the next few years. Viktor has worked in both outpatient and inpatient substance use treatment settings with and without medical assisted treatment options. As Viktor pursued their doctorate, Viktor always maintained therapy in their heart. In their research Viktor has studied many innovative technologies for improving substance use, depression, anxiety, and better understanding the mind-body connection. Currently for their dissertation Viktor is exploring the stories of LGBTQ cancer survivors to bring light to many of the stories of strength and resilience that are often neglected.
Approach:
The approach Viktor takes to therapy is an eclectic approach. Recognizing that each client comes in with their own experiences and expectations which ultimately manifests into critical areas of opportunity for growth and development. In taking this approach Viktor is seasoned in cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, narrative therapies, asset-based approaches, and motivational interviewing.
Fun Facts:
In their free time you can find Viktor running, biking, swimming, lifting, or paddleboarding, as a triathlete Viktor loves to stay active. Often you will see Viktor’s Dalmatian Azrael running right alongside them or Viktor’s French-Bulldog Gabriel joining them on a leisurely paddleboard ride.
Specialties:
*Anxiety
*Anger
*Cancer/Chronic Health Conditions
*Career Concerns and Exploration
*Depression
*Divorce
*Dual Diagnosis
*Gender Identity
*Grief & Loss
*LGBTQ+
*Minority Experiences
*Mood Disorders
*Polyamory/Open-Relationships
*Relationship Issues
*Substance Abuse with or without Medical Assisted Treatment
*Transitional Events