I could list my degrees (MSW from USC), my credentials (LCSW, CFTP) and my experience (5 years of individual and couples therapy). Most of all I am a mom, a sister, a grandmom and a retired veteran. I understand life from many intersections. I know the stigma of seeing a mental health professional, but I also know that most of people that are in therapy seek treatment because they have to deal with people that refuse to seek treatment for themselves. I create a safe space to process what you have experienced, what you want to change, and what are your barriers to success.
Our first few sessions will consist of us just getting to know each other to see if I am a good fit for you. During this time I will gather information to help us to build a treatment plan that will be used to guide our future sessions. Most of all I want you to feel safe and maybe even have a few laughs or two.
I feel my greatest strength is my ability to meet you where you are, so that I can empathize with your experience. For me it is not enough to know treatment modalities, I also need to know you as a person. I have been told by my prior clients that they feel safe telling me the truth because they know their truth comes to me without judgment.
I approach every patient with the understanding that everyone has a story. If that story includes exposure to abuse, neglect, discrimination, violence or any other adverse experience that person is an iceberg. It is imperative that I create a safe space for use to work together to get to the bottom.
Upon request I can provide scripture or faith based methods in treatment. I have taught in various Bible Studies and I have held leadership roles in my church. I can help you to encourage, and motivate you through the Bible.
Unfortunately over the last few years I have had to many occasions to counsel clients on ways to manage their grief. We will walk through the grief process to normalize your feelings and emotions until you can find your new normal.
Once you have a better understanding of your attachment style this approach can help you to address and resolve past traumas, why do my relationships fail and many other issues that stem from your childhood.
We can work together to break down how your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors can be restructured to uncover unhelpful thinking patterns that will change how you think, feel, or act everyday. This technique is common for treating anxiety.