New to Grow
I am a native of Las Vegas, Nevada. I was born at Nellis Air Force Base. Since high school I realized during a brief career exploration class at Las Vegas High School that I prefer careers in the helping professions. I chose a curriculum that focused on counseling, interacting with people rather than social work and administration. I specialized in rehabilitation but found more opportunities in Arizona in mental health services. I assessed individuals for serious mental health in the state of Arizona and South Carolina. Working for State Mental Health systems provided training for a wide array of services for children and adults.
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
In the first session, this counselor will gather as much information of as possible to assess for personal safety and needs. The intake involves understanding personal feelings and thoughts which facilitates a therapeutic relationship.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
I have worked since the early 80s many in multiple states with a diverse group of people. In Las Vegas, I started working in a residential program for adults with substance use disorders and victims of domestic violence. In Arizona, I provided a wide array of services for individuals with serious mental health issues and advocated for access to services for the State of Arizona. My experiences as a military dependent supported a flexible view of others perspectives or cultural sensitivity. I have also provided services for several years for the Pascua Yaqui Tribe. Use of CBT, Trauma Focused CBT, and some Motivational Interviewing supports adjustments to phases of life like transition to the private sector after years of military service and communities. I enjoyed helping adolescents choose college and other vocational services. Recently, I frequently assist individuals with accepting loss of social connections and building healthy connections.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
My ideal clients are aware that rethinking or reprocessing very stressful and traumatic situations is necessary. I am interested in encouraging clients to learn additional coping skills information about mental health and use more resources. I enjoyed advocating for more access to services as a legal advocate in Arizona. Increased medical and psychological services lead to better outcomes.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Before CBT was established as a best practice, I identified CBT as the most effective method. I also enjoy using Cognitive Processing Therapy, and Trauma Focused CBT.
EMDR
I received Basic EMDR in addition to Cognitive Processing Therapy. EMDR is very helpful for addressing physical reactions to triggers.
Adlerian
Since the late 80's I have used Adlerian counseling to assist parents with management of misbehavior. I used it frequently when I provided school based counseling for five years in South Carolina. Understanding the goals of misbehavior is very important.
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
I recently received some virtual training in DBT. I enjoy using a free website to assist my clients with emotional regulation.
Narrative
I received training from a psychiatrist at Southern Arizona Mental Health Center in Tucson, Arizona for a few years. Narrative therapy is very helpful for understanding my client's social connections and environments.