Chelsea Vanderford
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. I have a Bachelors in Psychology from Evangel University and a Masters in Counseling and Psychology from Troy University. My background work is mostly with adolescents and young adults both in the church and in therapeutic practice.
Having a combination of personal experience, niche research, and an affinity for existential work, I feel my greatest strength is being able to discuss ministry trauma without abandoning faith.
Through my time in ministry I found that many pastors and church members were experiencing church hurt, trauma, and burn out. The statistics continue to rise in this area unfortunately. It is my goal to specialize in faith based counseling in order to see more healed and healthy ministers/Christians.
First session
In our first session come prepared to bring your most pressing needs to the table. I want to be able to listen mostly in order to know which direction you want to go therapeutically. I support whichever path you choose and will take time to allow you to decompress. Following the initial unpacking we will choose together what you would like to address first.
Strengths
Having a combination of personal experience, niche research, and an affinity for existential work, I feel my greatest strength is being able to discuss ministry trauma without abandoning faith. I work to create a nonjudgmental environment where you can talk about your life without feeling condemnation.
Ideal clients
I enjoy working with pastors, ministers, and Christians. I can best serve those who want the clinical approach with some faith work woven in. I am seeking clients who want to unravel their experiences and find a healthy way to move forward.
Treatment methods
Christian Counseling
As a clinician who also works in ministry I make an effort to create a healthy blend of psychology and biblical references in therapeutic sessions.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
CBT work can be beneficial in session when confronting unwanted thinking patterns. I have utilized CBT throughout my career and find it is adaptable to most therapeutic needs.
Trauma-Focused CBT
I am certified in TFCBT and often employ these methods when breaking apart traumatic experiences.
Faith-based therapy
For the individual that elects to combine spirituality and mental health work, I enjoy bringing in biblical principals to the growth process.
Location
Virtual sessions
Identifies as
Top specialties
Other specialties
Serves
Licensed in
- FloridaLicense MH17897