LISW, 10 years of experience
New to Grow
Hello, I'm Angela! With over 20 years of social work experience and a decade of counseling expertise. I bring a wealth of knowledge and dedication to my work. As a proud Air Force veteran, I understand the values of resilience and commitment. I completed my graduate studies at the University of Maryland in Baltimore, where I specialized in empowering families and children. Throughout my career, I have been deeply committed to supporting individuals living with and affected by HIV/AIDS, advocating for their needs, and facilitating their journeys toward better health and well-being. My experience spans diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds, allowing me to effectively address life's most pressing challenges, including family dynamics, health concerns, and workplace stressors. I am passionate about making a meaningful impact in the lives of those I serve.
In our first session, we will get to know each other. The therapeutic relationship must be a good fit for both of us. We will discuss the primary concern that brings you to therapy. Then, we will look at the "bigger picture", such as your family history, social support, strengths and opportunities for growth, and any military background (if applicable). I will never require clients to talk about something they're not ready to address or comfortable with, and will work to meet each person wherever they are in their process. Finally, if time permits, we'll review your symptoms, determine a diagnosis (if applicable), and discuss your desired best outcomes for our time together.
I serve with a non-judgmental, compassionate, yet direct approach, listening and asking probing questions, as needed. Therapy can be scary and frustrating at the beginning. Therefore, it is your right and your responsibility to initiate and engage in the change you want to see in yourself. I believe everyone is more than their current situation or diagnosis, and you deserve a safe space to heal and grow towards your full potential. So, when you are ready, schedule an appointment, and we can get started.
I enjoy working with adults who are experiencing depression and/or anxiety related to life transitions. These transitions may include challenges related to career choices, aging, chronic illness, grief and loss, low self-worth or self-esteem, and crises of faith. My ideal clients recognize that change can be difficult but are willing to work to achieve their desired outcomes. For safety reasons, I do not conduct virtual sessions with clients who are experiencing active psychosis or suicidal thoughts, but I am happy to provide referrals if needed. I enjoy working with adults experiencing depression and/or anxiety associated with life transitions, such as those relating to career choices, aging, chronic illness, grief and loss, low self-worth/self-esteem, or having a crisis of faith. My ideal clients are the ones who understand that change isn't always easy, but are ready to do the work necessary to make a move towards their desired outcome. For your safety, I do not work virtually with clients who are experiencing active psychosis or suicidality, but will provide a referral, as needed.
I believe no matter what environment a person comes from or what they have experienced, we all have strengths on which we can rely to pull us out of a situation. Utilizing a strength-based, solutions-focused approach, I help people who are open, ready, and willing to work to navigate towards their desired outcome as quickly as possible.
As a Christian, I recognize the significance of faith in our everyday lives. I incorporate a faith-based approach in my practice for those who wish to do so. I also understand that not everyone comes from a Christian background. Therefore, clients are encouraged to express their faith or spirituality as much as they feel comfortable. If necessary, I will conduct brief research on different religious beliefs to ensure clients feel at ease and to help me serve them to the best of my ability. I do not engage in religious debates or attempts to convert anyone.
Some problems require addressing how we think or approach a situation. CBT is effective in therapy as it can help identify the triggering narrative, response, and "why" behind the trigger response. Incorporating a mind-body approach helps to change the narrative and ultimately the response.