LMFT, 5 years of experience
New to Grow
Having been through a lot in my teenage years into adulthood, where I learned self-confidence, I have found that if I had someone to help me work through issues of stress, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and many other life factors I would have been successful sooner. I have experience in diverse cultures where I have found I learn just as much from the people around me as they learn from me. Having an open mind and listening to my clients helps me to relate and understand them and develop a treatment plan or plan of action with them that makes them feel comfortable. I have an extensive history helping individuals understand their career path, educational needs, and learning life skills. I have a passion for mental health because of the family history with depression, schizophrenia, anxiety, and substance abuse, and it drives me to want to help others. I believe it is important to empower individuals, couples, and families towards a sense of normalcy and autonomy, and developing skills to meet the goals they have for their lives. Taking a holistic approach to counseling I take into consideration the whole person and stive to build a good working relationship with each client to better understand them, helping them feel at ease at a time that may feel stressful and awkward, and helping them navigate life's challenges. In my free time I like to go to the beach, take a walk in nature, and enjoy spending time with my children and 2 dogs. I also enjoy learning, reading, and going to amusement parks when time allows.
The first session will be like an informal meet and greet. We will talk about your expectations from me, my expectations from you, and what your goals for therapy are. We will talk about your history and gather information on who you are so I can get to know you a little bit, but mainly it is to see if I am a good fit for you and you are a good fit for me. If it is your first time in counseling I know that this process can seem overwhelming and scary, but I will do my best to listen and allow you space to be who you are or learn what that means. The first session is usually the hardest, sharing things with a stranger and sharing what you would like to happen, however, this is just the beginning of building trust and moving into progress.
I like to keep an open mind, explore and try new things with clients, and I use my personal experiences to help others. I believe that I have the ability to build a relationship and trust with people that allows them to feel safe and confident in sharing things with me knowing that this is a safe space to be open and honest. I am not here to judge you, but I am here to be your partner in success, building skills, self-esteem, or whatever your needs are to help you feel prepared for whatever comes next for you.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist with a background in Clinical Counseling, I use skills in cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, person-centered approach, emotional focused therapy, and family systems therapy. The approach to service shouldn't be overwhelming we will discover together the best approach for you and adjust to make sure that you feel comfortable, safe, respected, and valued. Contact me for more information and to schedule services, if you have a need that is not listed please still reach out, it may not be listed but I may provide that service, and if I cannot I will help you find a professional that you will feel comfortable with.
I have used CBT for the past five years in a substance abuse setting. I have also worked in crisis care using CBT and motivational interviewing.
I have used DBT for the past five year in conjunction with CBT but tailor my practice to the needs of my clients.
I have a master of divinity and have worked in Christian counseling over 10 years in ministry. I do not solely work with Christian clients as I believe that everyone has a right to mental health and other health services please don't let this deter you if you do not believe in Christian practices, I do not let it impact my work with you.
I have taken trainings the last three years and have taken a doctoral level class on cultural competence and sensitivity. I am open to people from all backgrounds and will learn from you as you learn from me.
I have done couples counseling for the last three years, I have some training in Gottman, EFT, and feel that couples should seek help before they get to the breaking point.