LPC, 15 years of experience
New to Grow
I believe that anger, substance abuse, or behavioral problems can be reduced to the lowest common denominator in order to engage in a healthy lifestyle. As a Licensed Professional Counselor/Psychotherapist, National Certified Counselor, SAP (DOT) and a State and International Certified Addiction Counselor I can assist you in engaging in a healthy lifestyle by providing a holistic approach to empower self-efficacy.
1. A Warm Introduction We’ll begin by getting to know each other. I’ll share a bit about how I work, what therapy with me typically looks like, and answer any questions you might have about the process. 2. Reviewing Paperwork and Confidentiality We’ll briefly go over any forms you’ve completed, discuss your rights as a client, and talk about confidentiality—what it means, and any limits to it (such as safety concerns or legal requirements). 3. Understanding Your Story I'll invite you to share what brings you to therapy. This may include current challenges, goals, or any other information you feel is important for me to know. There's no pressure to share everything at once—this is just the beginning. 4. Setting Goals Together We’ll begin to identify what you hope to get out of therapy. Whether you're seeking support with a specific issue or simply need a space to explore your feelings, we'll tailor our work to meet your needs. 5. Creating a Comfortable Space The first session is also an opportunity for you to assess whether you feel comfortable with me and my approach. Therapy is a collaborative relationship, and your comfort matters. You’re encouraged to ask questions at any time.
What stands out about my therapeutic approach is my emphasis on you as an individual. I integrate specific methods (i.e., CBT, client-centered, etc.) in a culturally responsive way.
I am best positioned to serve clients who are willing to do the necessary work for a more healthy lifestyle.
CBT is a structured, time-limited, and goal-oriented form of psychotherapy that aims to identify and change negative thought patterns, behaviors, and emotional responses. It’s widely used to treat a variety of mental health conditions like substance abuse, grief, anxiety, and other mental health problems. The core idea of CBT is that our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are interconnected, and by changing negative thought patterns, we can improve emotional well-being and reduce maladaptive behaviors.
In my therapeutic practice, I use an eclectic approach, integrating techniques from several evidence-based modalities to meet each client’s unique needs. My experience has shown that no single theoretical orientation fits every situation, so I draw from multiple frameworks—most commonly Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for structured thought–behavior work, Person-Centered Therapy for building rapport and unconditional positive regard.
I have developed a strong foundation in person-centered techniques through both formal training and hands-on experience in my professional practice. Rooted in the core principles of empathy, unconditional positive regard, and genuineness, person-centered approaches have become central to how I build trust and foster meaningful relationships with the people I support. In my work, I prioritize respecting each individual's autonomy, actively listening to their needs and preferences, and empowering them to take an active role in their care or personal development. I recognize that each person is the expert of their own life, and I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental environment where they feel heard, valued, and supported.
I have developed experience in using Motivational Interviewing (MI) through both formal training and practical application in my work with clients. MI has become a core part of how I engage with individuals who are navigating ambivalence or resistance to change, especially in areas like substance use, health behaviors, or mental health challenges.