Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I hold Doctoral Degrees in Education, Religious Sciences & Counseling, Master's of Social Work and a Bachelors in Psychology. I have 25 years of experience working with children, youth, families, individuals, and veterans helping them address and overcome mental health challenges and the problems that life puts in our path. I am also a christian, husband, father, and veteran. I enjoy bringing my practical experience, insights and wisdom into the therapeutic relationship in order to help the people I work with.
The key to a successful therapeutic relationship and positive outcome is building a good relationship. This starts with getting to know each other and building trust. You can expect me to put 100% of my focus and effort into listening to you and understanding what you have to say about yourself and what you are experiencing. After a brief introduction, I will ask you open ended questions and be eager to answer any questions you may have.
I believe my greatest strength as a therapist is helping others to find their strengths, identify the root cause/s of their challenges, and ultimately overcome the challenges and situations they are experiencing.
I love working with people who are looking for change and or answers in all areas of their life. If you are feeling there is no hope, feeling lost in who you are, what you are doing, or overwhelmed with challenges life has put in your path, we can work together to get you to a better place. If you desire a way forward from the challenges and circumstances you are experiencing, I look forward to working with you!
My preferred approach to using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is both Client centered and integrates the utilization of a strengths-based and trauma informed perspective. When I am working with my Clients, I seek to integrate one of more of the following therapeutic tools: cognitive restructuring and or reframing, guided discovery, exposure therapy, journaling and or thought recording, relaxation techniques, goal setting, activity scheduling, behavior activation and or modification. In my experience, CBT is an evidence-based approach that is effective for a multitude of presenting issues, including anxiety disorders, depression, phobias, PTSD, and more. CBT is a structured, goal-oriented therapy that empowers Clients to take an active role in their healing and or growth process. The collaborative nature of CBT fosters a strong therapeutic relationship where the therapist acts as a guide and coach through the process of Client centered and therapeutic change.
Christian counseling seeks to integrate the wisdom, principals and evidence-based therapeutic practices with both the teachings and principals found in the Bible and in Christian faith. This means looking at mental health challenges through a Biblical and Christ centered worldview and understanding how faith can be a source of healing and a foundational strength for my Clients. My approach to Christian Counseling integrates evidence-based practices, psychotherapy, psycho-educational components, and a strong emphasis on building a good therapeutic alliance. My clinical experience shows scripture and the Client's personal faith is a strength and serves as a foundation for achieving positive therapeutic results and personal goals, and resolving unique challenges.
My approach to family therapy is a culturally informed family systems approach. This approach from my experience is necessary in that each family member is an individual and their challenges and presenting issues must be met in order to address the greater family challenges and issues. My comprehensive approach to family therapy may involve one or more of the following techniques: psychoeducation, conflict resolution, behavioral modification, supportive family therapy, brief solution focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and group specific work such modeling, role play, communication skills etc.