Alaina da Costa is a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) in the state of Texas, holding a Masters in Social Work with a clinical concentration from the University of Houston. Alaina is a dedicated and compassionate therapist who is skilled at building rapport quickly, and treating a wide variety of mental health concerns. Her areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), agoraphobia, panic disorder, grief, life transitions, self-esteem, and relationship concerns. Alaina is passionate about working with children 10 and up, teens, and adult individuals
Alaina understands that changing our relationship with our thoughts and feelings can significantly improve our relationships, as well as overall quality of life. Utilizing evidence based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), she addresses underlying concerns and empowers clients to make positive changes in their lives. Alaina is especially skilled at helping clients who previously felt stuck to accomplish what once felt out of reach.
Alaina has pursued specialized training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), a form of cognitive-behavioral therapy which helps individuals with OCD and anxiety disorders by gradually exposing them to their fears while preventing them from engaging in compulsive or avoidant behaviors. This process helps to break the cycle of fear and avoidance, leading to a reduction in symptoms and an improvement in overall functioning.
Alaina also utilizes Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), an evidence based intervention which is shown to increase awareness of thoughts, urges and feelings, increase one’s ability to cope with intense emotions, and decrease impulsivity. Incorporating DBT techniques in one’s life often translates into increased self-concept, improved communication, healthier relationships, and a more meaningful existence.
As an Licensed Master Social Worker, Alaina is actively working towards completing the requirements to be a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Texas. She is working under the supervision of Blank Slate Therapy clinician Leslie Wood, LCSW-S. Alaina is committed to supporting you on your journey, and is looking forward to seeing you in the office very soon.
