It is important for me to establish a strong rapport with clients. I treat my clients how I expect to be treated if I was a client obtaining therapy. I consider myself a fair and objective person who listens without judgment. I am open-mind and kind, and it is important for clients to feel my genuineness and empathy throughout the therapeutic relationship.
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
Therapy goals start with establishing a strong rapport and therapeutic relationship with the client. We begin by identifying recurring and underlying concerns, and explore goals, intentions, and aspirations of the client. Next, we narrow down the concerns to find 1-2 concerns that we can create clear, measurable and attainable goals. Once the goals are established, we can start an action plan to track and achieve those goals.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
I have had experiences in life where I have felt depressed, anxiety stress, etc., and I have had to seek help from a counselor to help get through the rough patches. Thus, my experiences have made me a very sympathetic and empathetic counselor.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
I have many years' experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. Prior to working as a Licensed Professional Counselor, I worked as a special education teacher. Thus, I bring much of what I learned and observed as a teacher to assist with children, adolescents and teens with their mental health. Additionally, I have extensive experience working with military individuals and families. Thus, I have considerable knowledge with military life and culture.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I have used Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for the past few years. Although we touch on the past, CBT allows us to focus on the client's present-day concerns and the distorted thinking patterns and behaviors that led the client to therapy. Therapy goals start with establishing a strong rapport and therapeutic relationship with the client. We begin by identifying recurring and underlying concerns, and explore goals, intentions, and aspirations of the client. Next, we narrow down the concerns to find 1-2 concerns that we can create clear, measurable and attainable goals. Once the goals are established, we can start an action plan to track and achieve those goals.
Polyvagal Therapy
My approach to therapy is grounded in the understanding that many emotional and behavioral challenges are rooted in the nervous system’s response to stress, trauma, and chronic overwhelm. I use Polyvagal Theory to help clients understand how their nervous system has adapted for survival and how these patterns can be gently reshaped through safety, connection, and regulation.