(she/her)
New to Grow
Hi! It's just Jamie. I have been in the social service field since 1999 where I started as a case manager and worked my way up to where I am today. I do not feel like there is a population I have not worked with over the years. I am a mom first but my husband at times has said I am married to my work. I am very laid back but will advocate for my clients as no other. Some of my former clients refer to me as a pit bull when it comes to them getting what they need to be successful, I am a advocate by nature. My hobbies include trips to the ocean, riding on the back of the motorcycle, writing and star gazing with my kiddos.
First sessions are a bit nerve wrecking for both new client and clinician. Anxiety may be high on both sides and my goal is to help decrease yours. I will explain documentation, confidentiality and duty to warn in terms that are easy to understand as well as any other things you may have signed and are not sure of at this point. This is not the time to see if we are a good fit as I would hope to give it at least three sessions in before making that decision. During the first session we will talk about the issue that brought you to me as well as what you would like to see come from therapy. We will start establishing a goal for services and steps towards achieving your goal. By the end of the session I hope some nerves are calmed and we can move forward together on your journey.
After over twenty years of community-based mental health, I had to make changes as that setting was not the right fit for me. I want to take time to focus on each individual rather than attempting to make some quota or productivity number. I prefer quality over quantity. I enjoy getting to know my clients as much as possible to be able to assist them as much as possible. I am new to Grow, so it may take a while to see reviews, but my previous clients still contact me when needed. I hope that never ends, as I find it an honor that they trust me that much. I believe in a person-centered approach and compassionate inquiry to assist in processing. While working community based mental health I worked with children in local schools mostly. A huge reward of this is being in a grocery store or somewhere public and the then children, who are mostly adults now, to me still. At times I do not recognize them due to the years, but it is an amazing feeling when they still remember me. My older clients I have had over the years I hope to see join me via Grow as well. As far as my greatest strengths, as stated in the beginning, I am just Jamie and I am good with just that.
I like working with those who feel "lost" to assist them in finding direction. I want clients who are willing to allow me to come on their individual journey with them to assist in navigating. I want every person I interact with to know that they are one of a kind and have a purpose, even if they may not see it yet. Many clients I have worked with have said they didn't enjoy therapy because they didn't like the professionalism and wanted someone "real". My approach is not that of a cookie-cutter template, but what goal and treatment will truly serve your needs. My goal is for my clients to leave each session knowing what the next step is and feeling they can take that step with confidence.
Person-centered (Rogerian)
I have been in the social service field since 1999 and found that each client is much different than the last. No cookie-cutter therapy technique works for everyone. Every person and situation is different and may need a different approach. Compassion, empathy and resiliency are keys to success in all situations. My goal is to create a safe environment for each client to be able to explore their own feelings and to have a better sense of control in their unique situations.