LMHC, 25 years of experience
New to Grow
I have worked in mental health for over 25 years in a wide variety of settings and I do believe that anyone can heal and change behaviors anytime during their life. We are shaped by the events of our lives but the final shape depends on how we respond and grow. It is never too late, or too early. The possibilities are all around you.
Your time is precious. Our first meeting will really be about exploring the issues you want to address and we will get started. The aim is to get you what you need and get you back to your life. Sometimes it can be helpful to discuss your history in some detail, but that isn't where the growth will take place. We stay firmly grounded in the present in a short term solution based approach.
I keep my sessions conversational and flowing. If it feels like you were talking to a concerned friend who will always tell you the truth and will offer helpful suggestions then I have done my job. Having someone who is not a stake holder to listen gives you the freedom to express your ideas that might feel unappreciated in your daily life.
There are a lot of negative beliefs about counseling and mental health. In my approach, I will explain concepts in easily understood discussions and I genuinely do not have an agenda for you. Our work is driven by your goals and your needs. The short time we have together is for you to use to gather information, problem solve, or even just find a deeper understanding of you self.
My work literally takes our cognitive behaviors as a starting point to change behavior. How we think influences how we act.