Hi, my name is Anna Lanier-Comar. I have been practicing in the mental health field for 17 years. I served in the Air Force Reserves for 8 years as a Mental Health Technician while earning my MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I completed the requirements for Licensure while working at an inpatient Eating Disorder Facility in North Carolina. I have been practicing as a Licensed Therapist since 2017. Most of my professional experience is in treating Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, Borderline personality disorder and Eating disorders. I use a few different modalities in therapy. I work to help clients feel empowered over their human experience; good and bad. If you have not participated in therapy before it can seem a little daunting. During the first session, we will go over your relevant history and compile a list of goals you would like to accomplish while in therapy. In the following sessions, we will increase coping skills and strategies, along with awareness of your emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. Throughout therapy we will work to increase your resilience, confidence and adaptability to all life has to throw at you, as well as heal from the parts of your past that need your attention.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
The initial intake will consist of compiling a full background history, setting goals and going over expectations for future sessions.
What treatment methods and tools do you utilize?
I utilize Cognitive Behavior Therapy; skills to help manage and regulate emotions, effective cognitive patterns, and intentional rational-based decisions and behaviors. I use Dialectic Behavior Therapy; skills and strategies to help with emotion regulation and effective interpersonal relationships. I use Narrative Therapy techniques to help you shape "the story you tell yourself" with intention and awareness. I also enjoy having the opportunity to include biblical principles in the therapeutic process as they have stood the test of time; i.e. eternity.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
I utilize CBT, DBT narrative therapy and the incorporation of biblical principles in my approach. My clients have reported a significant decrease in both depressive and anxiety symptoms, as well as an increase in self esteem and concept. Regardless of spiritual beliefs, humans need to feel love and connection. We need to feel a sense of self-acceptance and grace. I help clients become more comfortable with who they are inherently, despite what the negative internal voice claims "is true" about who they are. When practiced, these modalities and principles allow individuals with Bipolar and Borderline personality disorder to have more control over their emotions and increase impulse control without the use of guilt or shame. I provide a judgment-free environment that facilitates vulnerability and transparency from the client.