(she/her)
New to Grow
Greetings! I applaud your courage in taking steps towards self care as this could become the best gift you give to yourself. I have learned over the last 20 years in practice that clients know him or herself better then I do and that it is crucial to meet you where you are at. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor where I earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Ball State University in Muncie, IN and a Master of Art degree from Clark Atlanta University in Atlanta GA. I specialize in supporting individuals who are struggling with anger, anxiety, chronic stress, post-traumatic stress, mood fluctuations, addiction, life transitions, alcohol and drug addiction and trauma victims where Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) treatment modalities are integrated. I offer a non-judgmental, affirming and warm therapeutic environment with intentionally creating a safe space to honestly explore life struggles.
Your initial session will involve addressing what led to your decision to begin counseling, reviewing the intake paperwork and assessments. Inquire about any questions or concerns you may have and provide education as needed. Identify your needs/wants and experiences you are having that will led towards developing your goals. Coping skills and strategies are offered as well as homework assignment (s) when applicable.
I have received feedback from clients that they have experienced an authentic connection causing them to feel comfortable and safe to disclose earlier than they intended. I have helped high-achieving professionals overcome burnout and regain work life balance using mindfulness and direct, no-nonsense guidance. I have helped clients find relief from persistent worry and hopelessness utilizing such interventions as the body scan and the treasure chest reducing intense emotions and racing thoughts from a ten to a zero within 15 mins or less. The benefits are long-lasting as clients report increased ability to regulate their emotions and demonstrate effective conflict resolution skills.
Professionals, executives, entertainers, first responders, recently discharged from a hospital, and adults (18+) struggling with issues such as questioning their life purpose, anxiety, single women who struggle with relationships, conflict, abuse, sexual assault survivors, suicidal ideations/attempts, addiction, mood disorders, human trafficking victims. Individuals with ambiguity or goal directed . Voluntary/involuntary treatment. Individuals interested in evening or weekend appointments. Willing to accept cash paying clients.
EMDR
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) was integrated into my practice four years ago to address harmful life experiences that contribute to problems in daily living and has been used effectively across cultures and conditions. EMDR compared to Prozac demonstrates that EMDR therapy is superior beyond termination of treatment. EMDR therapy is known for treating post-traumatic stress and trauma, however because it is an integrative comprehensive approach it can also be utilized to treat other lasting negative effects such as depression or anxiety. EMDR therapy is usually requested by clients. Many clients have benefited from addressing the physiological storage of memory and how it forms behavior or experiences. Change is understood as a byproduct of reprocessing memory storage of past, present, and future. Careful attention is given to images, beliefs, emotions, physical responses, increased awareness, internal stability, resiliency, and interpersonal skills towards achieving identified goals.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) has been utilized in my practice for 20 years where the approach is collaborative. We would work together as a team to identify challenges and find solutions. CBT is a structured goal oriented form of talk therapy that treats mental health issues by identifying and modifying unhealthy thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. CBT focuses on the present, teaching practical skills to replace negative thinking patterns with healthier, realistic alternatives to improve well-being. Clients have found a sense of newness by discovering areas of growth they never new existed. The core belief of CBT is that our thoughts, not external situations, dictate how we feel and act. Treatment is usually short-term with a gradual withdrawal from treatment.
Motivational Interviewing
MI is a collaborative, goal directed counseling style I have used for four years where the focus is to strengthen one's motivation when dealing with ambiguity. I will employ an empathic, non-judgmental approach to help us explore chains of thoughts and move towards "change talk" in resolving ambivalence.