New to Grow
Thank you very much for checking here; I am honored to serve you. My 17+ years of experience includes many years of counseling and listening, across various cultures, ages and personal client needs, with a few years as adjunct professor at Louisiana State University, Shreveport, LA: 3 years of work as a patient counselor in a hospital psychiatric unit, and 3 years of practice in a pediatric clinic. My current solo practice is empathetic, accepting and non-judgmental, having also practiced as an EAP (employee counselor) in a very large hospital and city system, in which I was required to see anyone for any situation or issue they may bring to counseling. This unique opportunity provided me with insights and understanding of people beyond my own personal scope of experience. I believe this has made me more sensitive to the needs, hurts and stress of the various clients I serve. I am generally available 6 days a week for appointments, because I really do enjoy my practice and my clients. I am licensed in Louisiana, Oregon and Florida and serve clients in those states, as well as in overseas countries. I am old enough to enjoy my 6 children, 14 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchild, together with my wife in a delightful sharing relationship. This creates a relaxed, accepting and strong relationship and family foundation for your counseling needs. My personal strengths hopefully convey to you a caring and positive mindset as we work together. My hobbies are sailing, backpacking, snow skiing and cooking (especially apple pies:) Hope to hear from you soon!
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
On our first visit, I will clarify to you the confidentiality protocol (nothing is recorded or shared with anyone else; no one is listening/observing, etc). I explain that I want you to be comfortable here, so feel free to ask me any questions or concerns you may have. I then ask a few questions about any medication you may be taking, relationships you may be in and quickly begin by asking 'what brings you here'. We start immediately looking for solutions and exploring options for you. Generally, there are handouts that are sent to you to further assist, address and explain techniques and information to help you reach your counseling goals.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
I think and do hope that you will find a comfortable environment, and empathetic response and a genuine concern for your circumstance. As a result, you can message me 24/7, and I read my messages and respond daily; often several times a day. You are never an interruption and can reach out to me at any time to discuss your concerns. However, please be aware that online therapy is not a crisis service, not a suicide prevention support. For those concerns, you should immediately contact 911 or the nearest hospital, as well as a close friend and support. Since I could be in session and unable to answer your call, your needs can only be met by professional suicide or self-harm support persons.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
I initially obtained my LPC license while working at Willis-Knighton Hospital Behavioral Unit in Shreveport, LA, where I individually and in group session counseled patients with literally any and all kinds of emotional and psychosocial needs. Shortly thereafter, I became the EAP therapist for our hospital, multiple businesses and a large part of our city. This allowed me to see clients who came for virtually any reason and concern. While this doesn't make one an expert, it does provide a vast opportunity to learn and develop knowledge and skills to serve other clients.
Solution Focused Brief Treatment
Welcome to Grow Therapy; and to my personal approach theory. I believe the 'Solution Focused Brief Therapy' allows us to very quickly address your concerns, and so after only a few routine questions, we immediately begin discussion about why you are here, what has changed to bring you here today, and most important, how we can find the quickest and easiest solution to your concerns. The sooner we can eliminate your need for counseling, the more successful the counseling and the better off you are. SFBT believes that virtually every question has an answer and every problem has a solution. My goal is to simply help you find that answer.
Couples Counseling
For many years I conducted 'Pyramid of Love!' marriage and relationship seminars across the country. Those principles, experiences and techniques are utilized here to address couples in counseling, as well as the partner who comes here for counseling, but their companion does not come. Assessments, evaluations, guidelines and numerous handouts are provided to help you strengthen your relationship.
Christian Counseling
Christian values are presented for those who value the importance of the Word of God, and I have spoken to countless conventions in the US, Canada and Europe promoting and explaining those principles.
Grief Therapy
As a grief counselor for a hospice program in Louisiana, I was privileged to support and lead grief support group, family and individual sessions with those experiencing emotional loss. Grief is a part of love: it is the painful part, but should also be a stage of growth and healing.