I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Georgia, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of Florida, and a Registered Play Therapist (RPT). I hold an Ed.D. in Counseling Psychology. I retired from school counseling and became a full-time mental health therapist approximately 8 years ago. I have worked with clients from varied parts of the world, ages 3-70 years old, and with diverse issues/challenges (e.g., LBGTQIA+, anxiety, depression, PTSD, parenting, ADHD, etc.). My 25 years of experience has given me insight into a wide range of solutions, a "problem-to-be-solved" attitude, and a compassionate ear.
The first session is generally a "get to know you" session. This includes introductions, an overview of the current challenges, expectations about therapy and the therapist, general demographic information, possible goals for future sessions, and determination of compatibility of therapist and client.
As a provider, I take great pride in being supportive, helpful, nonjudgmental, and compassionate. My goal is to help the client feel comfortable and "heard." My greatest assets as a provider include helping clients identify their strengths, seeing issues/challenges as puzzles to be solved, and being able to see things "outside the box."
I use various modalities that provide the best evidence-based results such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Positive Psychology, Solution-Focused, and Client-Centered Therapy. As part of therapy, I include psycho-education about the relationship between beliefs, thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. My approach is integrative, holistic, and strengths-based. I provide tools for clients to thrive, not just survive.