(he/him)
New to Grow
When it comes to the therapeutic experience, my treatment motto is “therapy is a collaborative journey.” In treatment, the client or the patient sets the pace for treatment. As a clinician, we are trained to meet our patienst and clients where they are, currently, and provide services as appropriate. I always use this analogy when introducing how treatment will proceed to clients. I explain to clients that the therapeutic journey is like a road trip. They are in the driver's seat. They are setting the pace. They are deciding the route and the destination. All I do, as their therapist, is hold the GPS, suggest alternative routes when needed, and set the music.
Our first session will consist of building rapport and getting to know each other, as I believe that trust between the therapist and the patient is a fundamental part of a successful treatment plan. The reason the patient is coming to services will be discussed, a problem list will be established, and finally, a collaborative treatment plan will be designed.
With that in mind, I also reiterate that my job as their therapist is to provide a safe and non-judgmental space for them to process anything. I let it be known that I often validate their feelings and thoughts, but I balance that out by challenging feelings and thoughts that are not beneficial for the client in their quest for healing. In treatment, I utilize a lot of psychoeducation that may include quick information searches on the internet, providing resources, using worksheets, and using media such as videos from YouTube, TED Talks, etc. I also use evidence-based treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy, its specialized version, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and Interpersonal Psychotherapy as appropriate. However, I could also take aspects of each treatment modality and use them as needed for interventions, as well as research others that we could incorporate in treatment.
The best demographics I am interested in working with are in the age range of 13-35 year olds. My background and experience of working with children and families in my current position in a non profit agency, working closely with my local school districts, and other individual clients through my church ministry has prepared me to specialize in providing service in a family based setting and peer counseling. Also, most of the evidence based practice certifications I gained during my time as therapist and a clinical social worker were all geared towards serving the youth, their families and others involved in their established support system. Additionally, my experience in peer counseling in our ministry, has allowed me to be relatable to young adults, thus building a strong rapport and trust, which is a vital component to successful treatment plan. The three evidence based practice I am certified in are Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), its narrative based version, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT), and Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT).
Other specialties
I identify as
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
With CBT, the therapist and client will explore the cognitive triangle where they will discover how a person's thoughts affects their feelings and influences their behavior. The therapist will introduce skills to and techniques to negate negative thought processes.
Child Parent Psychotherapy
Similar to Family therapy, treatment is centered around developing healthy ways to determine each member's role within the family unit, effective communication, positive conflict resolution, and establishing expectations between parents and adolescents
Family Therapy
Family therapy is centered around developing healthy ways to determine each member's role within the family unit, effective communication and positive conflict resolution skills.
Interpersonal
With IPT, treatment will combine aspects of CBT as the therapist and client will explore the cognitive triangle where they will discover how a person's thoughts affects their feelings and influences their behavior. The therapist will introduce skills to and techniques to negate negative thought processes. In addition, the client and therapy will assess the client's interpersonal relationships and discern attachment styles to develop coping skills and other technique such as boundary setting, establishing healthy relationship, while being able to maintain emotional stability with the help of effective communicating.
Trauma-Focused CBT
With TF-CBT, the therapist and client will explore the cognitive triangle where they will discover how a person's thoughts affects their feelings and influences their behavior. The therapist will introduce skills to and techniques to negate negative thought processes. The client will be encouraged to go on a "Hero's Journey" as they draft a narrative to reflect and overcome the subject trauma or event.