Welcome. I am an LPC, in practice for the past 10 years. I work with adults experiencing a range of challenges from work related stress, feelings of marginality and isolation and mood symptoms such as depression and anxiety. Using a holistic approach, I help people develop a deeper understanding of their challenges so they can gain mastery over implementation of calming and coping skills. Life will continue to have challenges and the goal is to empower clients to take them on with competence.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
In my practice, I require 3 foundation sessions to be completed together before the "official" therapy work begins. These sessions consist of a review of the informed consent to come into therapy. The intake which is an interview that explains the client's current issues and and reviewing life history and initial assessments start in this session and often rolls into session 2. The second session is a completion and review of the initial intake. The treatment plan is also completed in this session. Treatment plans outline an individualized treatment path. In the final foundation session, there is a thorough review of the therapy process including methods and expectations. These sessions are important as they scaffold the episode of care and provide the client with initial education about the therapy process and perhaps more importantly, they allow the client a broader opportunity to have a sense if I am a good fit as far as approach, presence and initial abilities.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
My background in sociology and community work both enhance my counseling practice. Besides an unwavering dedication to prioritizing cultural humility, I think it is imperative to consider social, structural and systems contexts to better understand personal dilemmas.