LPC, 5 years of experience
I am a board-certified, licensed professional counselor with over five years of experience providing compassionate and evidence-based therapeutic care to diverse populations, including adults, couples, seniors, children, and adolescents. My clinical expertise encompasses a range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, grief, relationship challenges, life transitions, behavioral issues, emotional disturbances, and patterns of neglect. I earned my Master of Arts in Counseling from Webster University, which equipped me with a robust understanding of psychological principles and therapeutic practices. My extensive training has informed my work in a variety of settings, enabling me to tailor my approach to meet the unique needs of each client. With over 25 years of experience in the social services field, I have worked with individuals of all ages and backgrounds, including clients with physical and mental disabilities. This breadth of experience has provided me with a comprehensive skill set and a deep understanding of the complexities of human behavior and mental health. My extensive background allows me to assess clients' progress effectively and implement interventions that are both practical and transformative. My treatment approach is rooted in evidence-based practices, primarily Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I am dedicated to teaching clients to recognize how their thoughts, beliefs, and attitudes influence their feelings and actions. By emphasizing self-awareness and cognitive restructuring, I empower my clients to develop healthier coping strategies and improve their overall emotional well-being. I believe that my clients can overcome any obstacles in their way. With a unique perspective and extensive experience in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I have seen firsthand how evidence-based care can lead to long-lasting behavioral changes. My success in practice stems from my passion for helping clients achieve their goals through individualized treatment plans tailored to their specific needs.
In our first session, we will focus on building a solid foundation for our therapeutic relationship. I will warmly welcome you and create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can feel comfortable sharing your thoughts, feelings, and concerns. To better understand your background and the reasons for seeking therapy, I will ask you thoughtful questions. We will discuss your therapy goals and what you hope to achieve through our work together. This conversation will help us create a roadmap for our sessions, ensuring we align our understanding of your objectives. I encourage you to share any specific expectations or concerns you may have about the therapy process. It’s important to me that you feel heard and validated from the beginning. During our session, I will explain the concept of confidentiality and emphasize its significance in maintaining your privacy. I will outline the limits of confidentiality, highlighting that while your information is protected, there are legal and ethical guidelines that may necessitate disclosure in certain situations. We will also go over the informed consent process, ensuring you clearly understand the therapist-client relationship, the methods we may employ, and your rights as a client. I recognize that trust and a strong therapeutic alliance are essential for effective therapy. Throughout our initial session, I will emphasize my commitment to creating a supportive environment where you can freely share your experiences and emotions. Establishing trust, mutual respect, and rapport will be a primary focus. I will invite you to discuss your background, including significant life events, relationships, and any specific concerns that led you to seek therapy. This discussion will provide valuable insights into your unique experience, guiding the direction of our therapeutic work. Additionally, I will conduct an initial assessment to gain a comprehensive understanding of your needs and challenges. This assessment will help us formulate a personalized treatment plan tailored to your goals. Together, we will discuss the proposed plan and collaborate on the best way forward to support your journey.
My focused practice in couples therapy, women's issues, anxiety, and depression allows me to cultivate a deep understanding of these specific domains. This specialized knowledge equips me to provide targeted, effective interventions tailored to the unique needs of clients facing challenges in these areas. I am committed to staying informed about the latest research and best practices to ensure that my clients receive the highest level of care. Empathy is central to my therapeutic approach. I genuinely seek to understand and validate the struggles of my clients while approaching their concerns with compassion. By creating a safe and supportive space, I can help clients feel understood and cared for. This empathetic approach fosters open communication and establishes a solid therapeutic alliance, which is crucial for effective therapy. Effective communication is critical in therapy, and I pride myself on my proficiency in this area. Clients can expect clear and articulate explanations of therapeutic concepts, active listening, and the ability to translate complex ideas into clear and concise terms. My communication skills promote client engagement, enhance understanding, and facilitate collaborative goal-setting throughout our work together. Recognizing that each client brings unique circumstances and challenges to therapy, my ability to adapt my approach is a significant strength. Whether involving modifying interventions, adjusting my therapeutic style, or incorporating evidence-based techniques, my flexibility allows me to provide personalized care that maximizes the potential for positive outcomes. Additionally, I adopt a holistic approach that extends beyond addressing specific presenting concerns. I recognize the interconnectedness of mental and emotional well-being and strive to consider various dimensions of my clients’ lives. This comprehensive perspective facilitates deeper and more sustainable change, as it encompasses the full scope of a client's experiences, relationships, and personal growth. These strengths combine to create a supportive and effective therapeutic environment, positioning me well to assist clients in navigating their challenges and achieving their goals.
My ideal clients are vibrant, dynamic women of all ages, with a particular focus on young adults between 18 and 30, as well as children aged 3 to 7. These women are not just clients; they are trailblazers, nurturers, and role models within their communities. They are navigating the intricate journey of adulthood, balancing personal aspirations, education, and career ambitions while often serving as caregivers and advocates for the younger generation. For the young women in the 18-30 age group, I envision clients who are eager to explore their identities and passions. They are pursuing their dreams—whether in college, starting new careers, or embarking on entrepreneurial ventures—while seeking guidance, support, and empowerment along the way. They are filled with optimism yet often face unique challenges related to societal expectations and systemic barriers. My goal is to offer resources and mentorship that can help them thrive, fostering resilience and self-confidence in their pursuits. Simultaneously, I am passionate about working with children aged 3 to 7. These young minds are the future, filled with curiosity, creativity, and potential. I aim to engage with them in a nurturing and inspiring environment that celebrates their cultural heritage while promoting learning and development. Through interactive and enriching activities, I seek to instill a strong sense of self-worth and creativity in these children, laying the foundation for their lifelong journey of learning and personal growth. Together, these two demographics represent a powerful synergy of strength, hope, and community. By empowering young women and nurturing children, I aspire to create a ripple effect that fosters resilience and joy, while also uplifting families and communities as a whole. This ideal client relationship is not just about service; it’s about building lasting connections and celebrating the diverse narratives that shape our lived experiences.
Jacqueline Berry-Jones offers therapy covered by Parkland Community Health Plan - Medicaid and UnitedHealthcare/Optum - Medicaid in Texas.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based, goal-oriented therapeutic modality that focuses on the interplay between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. It is grounded in the understanding that our original thoughts significantly impact our feelings and actions, playing a pivotal role in shaping our perceptions and experiences. By exploring and challenging our cognitive patterns, we can effectively transform our emotional responses and ultimately change our behaviors. With five years of experience, I have had the privilege of witnessing the immense positive impact that CBT can have on individuals facing various life challenges. The versatility of CBT allows me to address a wide range of concerns, including anxiety disorders, depression, phobias, trauma, stress management, and relationship issues. I integrate CBT into my therapeutic practice using a holistic and individualized approach tailored to meet each client's specific needs and goals. It is essential to remember that the effects of CBT are greatly amplified by the therapeutic relationship we cultivate. Our collaboration and your active participation are key elements in harnessing the full potential of this approach. I am committed to creating a safe and nonjudgmental space that fosters trust and empathy, enabling us to work collaboratively towards your goals. I am confident that through the integration of CBT into our therapy sessions, we can unlock your strengths, enhance your self-awareness, and equip you with the necessary tools to overcome obstacles and thrive on your personal journey. If you have further questions or if there's anything specific you would like to discuss regarding CBT or our therapeutic process, please feel free to reach out. I am here to provide the guidance and support you need.
With three years of experience in working with couples, I have witnessed the profound impact that therapeutic support can have on relationships facing various challenges. Couples counseling acts as a safe and supportive space where partners can openly communicate, deepen their understanding of each other's experiences, and develop effective strategies to improve their connection. In my practice, I approach couples counseling with compassion, empathy, and a dedication to creating a non-judgmental environment. Here are some key aspects of my approach to couples counseling: 1. Relationship Assessment: During the initial stages, I place great emphasis on understanding the unique dynamics of your relationship. Through open and honest dialogue, I encourage both partners to express their feelings, concerns, and goals for therapy. This assessment phase serves as the foundation for tailoring the counseling process to your specific needs. 2. Effective Communication: One of the primary objectives of couples counseling is to improve communication between partners. I facilitate open and constructive dialogue, teaching effective communication techniques and active listening skills. This enables you to express yourselves honestly, empathetically, and without judgment, fostering a deeper understanding of each other's perspectives. 3. Conflict Resolution: Couples often face conflict, and learning healthy ways to navigate and resolve disagreements is crucial. In therapy, we explore conflict patterns, identify underlying issues, and develop strategies to promote resolution and compromise. Through practicing constructive problem-solving techniques, we can strengthen the foundation of your relationship. 4. Rebuilding Trust: Relationships can suffer when trust has been compromised. Be it infidelity, breaches of confidentiality, or other trust-related issues, couples counseling provides a supportive space for exploring and addressing these challenges. I assist in rebuilding trust by fostering open communication, facilitating forgiveness, and developing strategies to prevent future betrayals. 5. Enhancing Emotional Connection: Couples counseling also focuses on developing and nurturing emotional intimacy. We explore ways to deepen your emotional connection, foster empathy and understanding, and enhance your overall emotional support for one another. Through various exercises and techniques, we work together to reignite and maintain the emotional spark in your relationship. 6. New Relationship Skills: Couples counseling not only addresses current challenges but also equips partners with valuable tools for maintaining a healthy relationship in the long run. These skills include active listening, effective communication, intimacy-building exercises, and ongoing commitment to each other's growth. Throughout our sessions, it is important to remember that couples counseling is a collaborative process that requires active participation and commitment from both partners. I am here to guide and support you both as you navigate the unique dynamics of your relationship, fostering resilience, understanding, and mutual growth.
Incorporating the Gottman Method into my practice requires a mix of structured assessment, education, communication skills training, and emotional connection strategies. By using these techniques, I can facilitate a safer, more effective therapeutic space for couples to work through their issues, enhance their connection, and build a stronger, more resilient partnership. Each couple's needs are unique, so it's essential to be adaptable and attentive to their specific circumstances throughout treatment.
By integrating Solution-Focused Brief Therapy into my practice, I can create a dynamic approach that encourages clients to focus on their strengths, possibilities, and actionable steps toward achieving their goals. My role as a facilitator of change will empower clients to harness their capabilities, leading to meaningful and lasting transformations in their lives. Emphasizing a solution-oriented mindset not only enhances therapeutic outcomes but also promotes a positive and empowering counseling experience.