Hello and welcome to my practice! If you choose to engage in therapy with me, you can expect a professional experience as well as a well-trained provider. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Nationally Certified Counselor, and a Board-Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor with over 20 years of addiction training and counseling experience. I have additional training/specialization in grief and trauma issues, (Certified Clinical Trauma Professional). Whether you are coping with anxiety and depression related to normal life stressors, or if you struggle with addiction issues and/or impulsive behaviors, we can identify what may be at the root of these behaviors and develop strategies to manage stress in a healthier manner. As a college professor with over 15 years of teaching experience in psychology, criminal justice, grief and loss, and addiction courses, my counseling includes evidence-based approaches to increasing coping skills and reducing common symptoms such as anxiety and depression. My preferred approach is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, with a strong emphasis on Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy. This is a focus on the present rather than the psychodynamic approach, which reviews (sometimes endlessly) the past. I am a Certified Mindfulness-Informed Clinician and my clients report less anxiety after learning these skills. I believe in establishing a confidential therapeutic relationship to build the trust necessary for sharing intimate thoughts and emotions that promote growth, healing, and self-awareness. If this sounds like a good fit for you, please contact me to schedule an initial evaluation, to develop a comprehensive treatment plan. I look forward to assisting you in your decision to make a positive change in your life! Visit my website: https://sharongough13.wixsite.com/website.

What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?

The first session is a 'meet and greet' to see if we would be a good fit to work together. If that seems apparent I will begin to gather history to create a treatment plan to begin therapy.

Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.

I have been a university professor (adjunct) for twenty years and this has been an invaluable experience in helping me to listen carefully to clients/students. I view therapy as an educational process, learning how to identify errors in thinking and to develop the necessary skills for change. I am confrontational with clients when necessary and I don't work with clients who are not demonstrating an effort/interest in making change.

About Sharon Gough

Appointments