I am a retired school counselor who began private counseling as my second career. I also have served as an educator for master's level counseling students. This has given me a lot of access to a variety of best practices. I like hearing client stories and helping them to find a better life for themselves. I like using my skills and experience to help people.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
The first session will largely be a "get-to-know you" conversation. The most important factor for success is a good relationship between a client and counselor. The first session will help me and the client determine if the relationship is a good fit. There will also be a lot of freedom for the client to tell their story. I must first understand that before I can be helpful.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
As an older adult, I have experienced a lot of situations that are similar to those of clients I serve. I feel like I am a good listener and can help clients gain insight into their current situation and what changes they need to make to feel better.
Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.
I do best helping clients with daily life challenges. I enjoy helping clients discover things about themselves and reaching new insights. Since I am only a part-time therapist, I would do best with clients who are seeking briefer therapies. I also have some training in helping client understand how the brain works. Clients usually feel reassured when they understand that their confusing reactions often have a neurological basis.
About Melinda Mays
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VirtualMy treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I have used (CBT) to help clients discover the internal messages that cause their emotional distress. Once clients become aware of these, they learn how to manage their emotions by examining and changing harmful thoughts by replacing them with more realistic ones. One reason I like this theory is that not only do clients find relief in their current situation, they learn a process to help them manage future distresses.
EMDR
This treatment allows the client to process trauma in a different way. Unlike hypnosis, during EMDR the client is always aware and in control. I have seen clients gain new perspectives on past trauma and become free of the harmful effects they have been experiencing.
Grief Therapy
I see grief therapy as walking with a client as they process a significant loss. The eventual goal is to help the client make meaning of the loss and find ways to incorporate the loss into moving forward.
Narrative
This therapy is less about reliving the past and more about constructing a more hopeful future. Clients develop their vision of a future not controlled by their problems. This process helps clients to set goals and develop steps to meet those goals.