Hi. I am a licensed independent clinical social worker (LICSW) specializing in brief, practical therapy for adults of all ages navigating difficult emotions and life challenges. I am a Samford University graduate and this is my second career. Chronic back pain prompted a change. My approach combines evidence-based techniques -REBT and Mindfulness-with Socratic questioning that helps you examine your own thinking patterns and discover solutions that fit your life. I have a collaborative style that respects your autonomy and builds on your strengths. I specialize in anxiety and stress management, anger management and emotional regulation, chronic pain and health conditions including tinnitus, life transitions and adjustment challenges.
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
In our first session, we will talk about what has been challenging for you and what you'd like to work on-even if you are not sure yet what that looks like. I'll ask questions to understand your situation, and together we will identify 1 - 2 concrete goals we can start working toward immediately. You will leave the first session with at least one practical tool or perspective shift you can use right away. First sessions typically last 45 - 60 minutes.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
My greatest strength is meeting you where you are while helping you move forward. I am good at breaking down complex emotional and behavioral patterns into understandable pieces, then giving you practical tools you can use immediately. I combine warmth with structure, so you will feel supported and see progress.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
Sometimes life can get confusing. It is easy to get stuck and finding old ways of coping aren’t effective and may even have negative consequences making matters worse. Let's discover another way. Let's not waste another minute.
Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy
Unhealthy thought patterns can be detrimental to overall goals and keep one stuck in old patterns. Challenging these thoughts and coming up with a balanced and flexible thought has been a game changer.
Mindfulness-Based Therapy
In this busyness of life it can be difficult to just be in the present moment. Often we run on fumes and don’t even focus on unhelpful behaviors or attitudes because we don’t see it. Stopping and utilizing mindfulness and meditation techniques can help slow the pace and give more time in between being triggered and reacting.
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
Managing emotions can be a full time job. DBT has come up with effective coping in the moment to take the air out of intense emotions.
Motivational Interviewing
I’ve found motivational interviewing helps determine and strengthen overall motivation to change a behavior or attitude that is keeping you from obtaining goals.