LCMHC, 10 years of experience
I have learned that I am not for everyone and everyone is not for me. I am a whole vibe professionally speaking. Therapy is a journey one in which the client is in the drivers seat and the therapist is in the passenger seat, shotgun! When you come to therapy its like showing up in some type of vehicle I will gladly get in and help navigate throughout the ride. Once the ride ends I get out and say goodbye until next time. Oh and I make sure during the ride you don't run us off the road ;).
Our first session is comprised of assessments and a get to know session. We will identify your thought and behavior patterns that impact your satisfaction with life and help towards establishing your wellness goals. Through our supportive relationship we will gain insight and design what's the best modality for you.
I have a strong client base for issues with anxiety, depression, and trauma. The first session dives deep into what will scratch the surface and open certain doors to rooms and places the client wants and needs to explore; or not. I recommend minimum 3 sessions to build upon your toolbox to help manage your symptoms.
The client that wants to get to the root of the pain, hurt, awkwardness, craziness, sadness, the list goes on is a great match with Ms. Tam. The client that also pulls from hope, spirit, experience, the unknown is a match with me. Its helpful for the client to remain open throughout at least 3-6 sessions after the assessment in order to fully rate symptom change.
The techniques may include but are not limited to dialogue, behavior modification, reframing of thoughts, realization, role play, communication techniques and expressive arts.
Specific procedural steps are used to access and reprocess information which incorporates alternating bilateral visual, auditory, or tactile stimulation.
As a Christian, I will discuss with clients who are also believers and want to discuss their spiritual practices and beliefs related to the Christian faith such as prayer and meditation. Also I know that everyone is not a believer in Christianity and that is ok. You don't have to be a Christian to want or need therapy ;0).
My counseling approach is very eclectic and includes person-centered therapy, family systems, cognitive-behavioral therapy and as of recent, training in EMDR- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing and training with Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). I may pull from all or other theories and incorporate various techniques depending on the specific needs of the client and/or family.