I have 31 years of experience providing counseling. I use cognitive behavioral therapy, stressing that what we think determines what we feel and what we do. For many reasons, people learn unrealistic or destructive thoughts that cause them problems in their lives. Therapy works towards more realistic thinking, and avoiding old and destructive thinking. As I like to say, "therapy is a conversation with a destination," and realistic thinking is that destination. While I am a Christian, I am not trained as a Christian Counselor. I am a "Counselor who is a Christian." My training is secular, and I regularly see people or all faiths, or none at all. I do not offer court ordered services, nor do I do assessments for custody, or any other legal purpose. Unfortunately, I cannot accept Medicare, or Medicare based plans. The world is changing, and more and more people are reaching out. I am seeing more men that have been in abusive relationships. There are also more people dealing with loss. Coming to my office is not like going to a big mental health clinic where you just another number on a spreadsheet. In my care, you are a person, and you'll be treated like one.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
First sessions tend to be about collecting information. The goal is to not only look at what is going on, but try and understand why it is going on. I tend to ask about one's life, from childhood, to school, to romantic relationships, and careers. We can be taught irrational ideas, or misinterpret events when we are young. If we do nothing to correct these unrealistic thoughts, we will continue to have problems.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
I have a great deal of experience. I have a in depth understanding of development. I have treated children, teens, and adults in my career. This has given a perspective on how we all develop through our lifetimes.
Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.
I tend to specialize in mood disorders, men's issues, and approaching problems from a Christian perspective. My training is secular, so i treat people of any faith, or none at all.