LCSW, 20 years of experience
Mental health treatment should not be traumatic. I am drawn to clinical work with individuals who have been historically mislabeled and misunderstood. I have successfully worked with many individuals whose prior negative treatment experiences gave them every reason in the world not to trust me. I have also provided effective counsel to emergency room physicians and nurses. I recognize the degree of stigma (often self-imposed) associated with medical professionals seeking mental health treatment. My experience in psychiatric emergency services has given me a true appreciation of the unique stressors front line workers face. I have been working in community mental health for 26 years. For the past 12, I have evaluated patients in psychiatric crisis in the local emergency room. One of the most frustrating aspects of this work was the warm hand off and discharge plan. Unfortunately, the need for qualified and compassionate clinicians far exceeds the existing resources.
In our first session I expect you to tell me a little about why you are seeking treatment. Be prepared to tell me what’s most important to you.
I have a keen ability to connect with individuals at their worst. There is very little that shocks, scares or offends me. Our time together will be judgment free.
Mental health treatment should not be traumatic. I am drawn to clinical work with individuals who have been historically mislabeled and misunderstood. I have successfully worked with many individuals whose prior negative treatment experiences gave them every reason in the world not to trust me. I have also provided effective counsel to emergency room physicians and nurses. I recognize the degree of stigma (often self-imposed) associated with medical professionals seeking mental health treatment. My experience in psychiatric emergency services has given me a true appreciation of the unique stressors front line workers face.
I am a fervent believer in practicing what you preach. I have integrated DBT into my daily life both personally and professionally for the past 20-some-odd years. Grounded in a nonjudgmental stance, I utilize a normalizing approach to presenting problems. My clients will have the opportunity to learn and practice skills in mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, emotion regulation and distress tolerance. The focus of therapy may include skills in one or multiple skills areas. One size certainly does not fit all.
Though our biology and family of origin do not necessarily cement our destiny, our early experiences shape who we become. I am always seeking to understand the "why" behind the "what". And I maintain that everything makes sense once you understand the context.