Tarra Benoist

Wanting to help: How I got into therapy…

Before obtaining my master’s degree in marriage and family child therapy, I was an EMT, professional firefighter, and paramedic. The skills I gained from stressful situations as a first responder i to stay present and only focus on the more life-threatening injury.

Therapy feels similar – some people feel that it’s life or death every day, and sometimes it is.

I learned how to stay calm and observe what needs to be done first. After raising my two daughters and coping through a divorce, I transitioned from helping people through immediate physical crises to helping them navigate their mental health needs.

My background and life story help my clients feel at ease in discussing difficult or painful subjects, and we can relate to familial and societal pressures that surround us. Being a first responder helped me become aware how important it is to process our trauma as soon as we are able.

Before founding Creating Connections Counseling in 2014, I worked in clinical settings for couples, children, families, and adults in the Greater Sacramento area. These experiences shaped my therapeutic approach. I was able to realize how healthy communication makes all the difference in challenging situations. I found that anything is possible when there is compassion.

As a mother of two children within a blended family, I understand our time is precious. Most people just want to be happy and healthy. Our psychological pain is very similar to physical pain. Both recover faster when given proper care.

A little about my approach to therapy…

I work with individuals, couples, and families in an engaged and interactive fashion. I engage clients by giving them all my attention and being genuinely curious about how they ended up in my office. The way therapy with me is interactive is when things happen in the room or online you get a felt sense of what we are talking about.

I see our work together as collaborative and respectful. This is so important to me, because to heal we need to be acknowledged and validate. This can only happen if you feel safe, and I want everyone to feel that acceptance from me.

I use a combination of techniques to create a therapeutic plan that’s right for you.

We will work collaboratively to make a plan that’s right for you and your desired outcomes.

Here’s what you can expect from me…

For my individual clients…

I’ll work hard to completely understand your perspective, because I’m genuinely interested in understanding your feelings.

I’m direct, honest, and compassionate when talking through issues that you may find challenging.

I’m results-oriented and seek to provide you with relief and a roadmap to wellness.

For my couples clients…

I don’t take sides. I view your RELATIONSHIP as my client, not either of you as individuals.

I am optimistic about love and your relationship. When you feel hopeless, I will carry the hope.

I believe that you both deserve and are worthy of love… and that you are not only capable of love, but designed to return that love.

Education and professional training…

After working my way through junior college, I continued to complete my education and received my Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communication, California State University Sacramento. The most interesting part of CSUS for me was seeing my first counselor and finally feeling relief.

As life moved by faster and faster, I decided to take my helping profession up a notch. After receiving my Master of Science in Counseling in Marriage and Family Child Therapy (MFCT) from the University of Phoenix, I become a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. It was a long road to get my license – and it was so worth it!

Internal Family Systems (IFS)

I have had the great fortune to work and train with the renowned Dr. Richard Schwartz, founder of IFS. IFS is an evidence-based approach to psychotherapy based on the theory that each individual possesses a variety of sub-personalities or “parts.” Getting to know each of these parts better leads to healing.

The belief is that natural multiplicity is a good thing, and we can learn how to connect with ourselves through acceptance and compassion. IFS is particularly helpful for clients suffering from trauma as well as most of life’s challenges.

Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)

In addition to IFS, I have trained extensively in EFT. This therapy offers a way to track and help couples understand how and why they get stuck in the same repeating argument.

Other Specialized Training

I have extensive experience with “Brainspotting.” Brainspotting is a technique that can target specific issues using bilateral sound. This helps access an emotional part of the brain. In addition, I have training with the “Comprehensive Resource Model.” This model helps clients get in touch with their inner child and heal through strength and compassion.

When I’m not doing therapy…

I’m an avid photographer, a foodie, and a jewelry maker.

I enjoy any activity that takes me outside into nature: hiking, biking, camping, and canoeing.

Now that my children are transitioning to college, I have more time for creative outlets and outdoor activities that restore my connections to my family, friends, and the world around me.

Ready to connect?

Take this step. You are not alone. We can help you figure out what is right for all of you.

Since you have decided to get help to make the changes you are hoping for, call now to schedule a free 15-minute consultation: (916) 316-1805.

We can answer any questions you may have and determine what works for you.