My name is Vanessa Simmons and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of South Carolina and Georgia with over 8 years of experience working as a therapist. I am also a Licensed Addiction Counselor in South Carolina. I started my education at Lander University in Greenwood SC where I received my Bachelor of Science in psychology with an emphasis on early childhood development. I went on to complete my Master's in Science in Psychology and Counseling from Troy University, Augusta, Georgia.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
You should expect to be heard and respected throughout the therapeutic process. My goal is to create a safe place for you to be yourself with no judgement. We will explode your past, take a look at current experiences in your life and set future goals for therapy. At times, in the therapeutic process you may feel uncomfortable and challenged in a gentle way to encourage healing.
What treatment methods and tools do you utilize?
I am trained in a variety of approaches but I primarily use a blend Motivational Interviewing, CBT, DBT, Person-Centered Therapy and Solution Focus Therapy.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
I believe “Life, at its best, is a flowing, changing process in which nothing is fixed”- Carl Roger. I understand in life there will be many changes. These changes may cause some anxiety, relationship issues, and depression. I have worked with clients on a board range of concerns including: anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, relationship issues, family dynamic distresses, poor communication styles, work place issues, and Post- Traumatic Stress Disorder. My counseling style is very empathetic, mindful and client-centered, yet direct and straightforward. I believe in treating everyone with respect and dignity but most importantly I pride myself on demonstrating compassion for all and being sensitive to the needs of others.