My name is Shada Patterson, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I work with adults and couples and specialize in depression, anxiety, stress, and substance abuse. I primarily work with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy but see myself as more of an eclectic provider depending on what the patient needs, and my goal is to meet patients where they are at.
In our first session, we will take time to explore what is bringing you to therapy, establish therapy goals, and create a safe and open space for honest sharing. This way, you can begin to build trust and feel supported from the start. We will regularly review and adapt them as needed to ensure you are making meaningful progress.
I am a more laid-back personality type, but when I believe I have a good rapport established with the patient, I am able to be more assertive. I want my patients to feel comfortable and safe talking with me about anything and I pride myself on my ability to listen without judgment.
As a Christian myself and using the Bible as the foundation to counseling, we are able to use it as a guide to help manage the presenting problem
CBT is very effective therapeutic modality and I have been using it for years with patients. Understanding the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and increasing an awareness helps build an understanding and steps to change.
Working with couples, focusing on improving communication and/or listening or whatever the presenting problem is and really trying to improve the strengths of the couple.