Chris Farmer
I have been in the field for about 13 years now. Along with being an Licensed Professional Counselor, I am also a Master Addictions Counselor and an ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider. I've run the gamut of variations in my mental health career: program manager, clinical supervisor, community trainer, policy advisor.
I live in the woods on a small hold farm and when I'm not in session, I am usually either splitting wood or working in the garden.
Each variation informs my style in direct care. I live in the woods on a small hold farm and when I'm not in session, I am usually either splitting wood or working in the garden.
First session
First session usually centers around building rapport and getting to know each other. We always leave the first session with a clear understanding of treatment goals that the client and I establish collaboratively.
Strengths
I tend to view a good counselor or therapist as a soundboard, a mirror that is able to provide feedback free of judgement and subjective bias. The work that is done here belongs to the client because they work the oars, I just mind the rutter. I believe that people are in full possession of their answers, my job is to ask the right questions. Results require patience and being open to discomfort. It's very similar to training for a 5k, it's not always going to feel good but the results will be worth it. I am always treatment goal oriented and only use self-disclosure if and when it's relative to my client's therapeutic process. This work is about the client, not me. Those that have worked with me in the past usually experience results before being aware of them, emphasizing the evolutionary nature of recovery. We change our behaviors, then our thoughts and feelings evolve over time.
Ideal clients
Being a trauma specialist, I find it best to have prospective clients understand that the therapeutic process is work. It isn't always pretty, and some of it hurts. Either through addiction or trauma recovery, challenging our conditioning is where it begins. We pursue this to create a better quality of life, and that usually involves trying things that are scary at first. I am best positioned to serve those that are hungry for change and are willing to join me in challenging old habits that no longer serve.
Treatment methods
Trauma-Focused CBT
I've been a trauma-informed cognitive behavioral therapist from the start of my career. We focus primarily on trigger identification, coping skill development, and applying these skills in real world situations.
Motivational Interviewing
In both trauma and addiction recovery, I've found that addressing the root source of motivation can break the ice when challenging maladaptive behaviors and unhealthy coping practices.
Location
Virtual sessions
Identifies as
Top specialties
Other specialties
Serves
Licensed in
- GeorgiaLicense LPC009028