Since I was a child, I had a strong desire to become a helping professional.  My path was made clear when I discovered and fell in love with the field of psychology.  I have worked in the helping professions for the past 20 years, gaining knowledge and experience providing therapeutic services not only in private practice, but in criminal justice, social services, and correctional settings as well.  In addition to generalized professional experience, I have extensive, specialized training in trauma, grief, co-occurring disorders (mental health and substance use), and anxiety.  I am equipped to serve individuals, groups, couples, and families.   I truly view my role as a therapist as a life calling and I take my responsibility toward my work and each client very seriously. I look forward to collaborating with you to help you become the person you were meant to be.  Let's get to work!

What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?

During our first few sessions, I will spend some time getting to know more about you and the issues that brought you into treatment. At some points, our conversation may be formal, and at other times it may be more free-flowing. I will ask you questions about your presenting concerns, as well as your history and background. Most likely, you’ll find yourself talking about your current symptoms or struggles, as well as saying a bit about your relationships, your interests, your strengths, and your goals. Follow-up sessions will continue to build and expand upon these topics. My role as a therapist is to provide an environment that is safe and comfortable for you.  That means that, at all times, I will accept you as you are and be respectful of your rights, your time, and your position as architect and navigator of your journey.  I will continually work to build and establish trust with you, being transparent and genuine during our interactions, so that you feel safe and comfortable enough to do the very important work ahead of you.

What treatment methods and tools do you utilize?

I often use an integrative approach when working with clients. That means I customize your treatment using the most effective methods to create a plan that best meets your needs and matches your preferred style. I also have received advanced training in several evidence-based therapies including Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Prolonged Exposure (PE), and Internal Family Systems. These modalities are more structured and have been proven to be highly effective in treating various mental health challenges. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional as well as a Certified Grief Informed Professional.

Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.

I enjoy working with clients to help them manage and overcome feelings of low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression. It is my goal to help each client grow and change to become the best version of themselves. I specialize in trauma and grief treatment, and many of my advanced training experiences are focused on these areas. I offer a tailored therapy experience for each client, which means there is always an opportunity for you to work with me to choose and implement the treatment or approach that best meets your needs. I understand the courage it takes to seek help and make the decision to work through the pain, and I do my very best in every session to honor that decision, partnering with you to help you achieve recovery and wellness.

About Tamara Carter, LPC, LSATP - Life by Design Therapeutic Solutions