I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing in Tennessee and Virginia. I have been in practice for 15 years, working in various specialties including anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, eating disorders, compulsive/impulsive behavior, bi-polar disorder, and schizophrenia. My approach I am well-versed in many treatment modalities, including CBT, DBT, CPT, Motivation/Mindfulness, and Trauma work. I believe in meeting clients where they are and always moving forward. It is extremely important to build a good relationship and focus on the client's needs with a realistic approach that fits seamlessly and comfortably into their everyday lives. I believe that the sustainability of new mechanisms aimed at improving the quality of life and constructive feedback is paramount to any therapeutic process. My focus I work primarily with adolescents and adults (14-65) of all cultural, gender, religious, and professional backgrounds. My goals for you I always meet my clients where they're at and listen intently. I work with clients on active and realistic goal setting.
My first session with you During the first session, I always get some background information and make sure I am clear as to why the client is seeking counseling and what their goals are. I provide information about myself and my experience, and the scope of my practice. The biggest objection throughout the first session was to build a genuine therapeutic rapport between me and the client.
My journey to mental healthcare While I have always wanted to be in a helping profession, I have found that therapy really does work if you are comfortable, open, and genuine. More than 15 years ago, I struggled with disordered eating, addiction, insomnia, grief, and anxiety. I have been in recovery for 15 years and continue to work through programming and stable mental health to this day. I find that drawing on my own experiences, along with my professional perspective, is the driving force for my career and my passion as a therapist.
My communication style I primarily work in a Telehealth setting, always in a safe, private, and confidential location. While I am structured in session, I am down-to-earth, laid back, and always make sure anyone I am working with feels safe, secure, and can trust me from all sides.
In 15 years of practice I have utilized CBT as an effective, evidenced based treatment modality that helps to reframe negative thinking that often warps problem solving and behavior. CBT is effective as it can be introduced in any setting and can be implemented across a variety of different routines and environments.