Hello there! I hope your day has been going well. If it hasn’t, well then, I hope I can assist with your tomorrow going a bit better. I’m Lori Sterling and I am committed to helping others forge better tomorrows. To accomplish this ,I utilize an emotion-focused approach that is trauma informed to provide a safe space for all. I am a graduate of the University of North Florida, where I received a Bachelor’s Degree of Science in Psychology and my Master's Degree of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Currently, I primarily provide individual counseling to adolescents and adults. My areas of expertise include emotional difficulties, life transitions, LGBTQIA+ issues, school issues, and personal growth/development. While these are the areas of expertise for myself, I maintain that therapy is not a “one way street” so to speak. Therapy is an ongoing conversation between therapist and client, with the ultimate goal being the client’s own personal design. I, as your therapist, walk with you to provide support and tools as you move towards your ideal self. I believe that all people deserve tomorrows that are brighter than their todays, and I hope I can assist you on that first step towards that ideal. Feel free to schedule an appointment. Let's begin your journey!
In our first few sessions, one can expect a gentle ease into therapy. The relationship between therapist and client is critical for overall growth, and how often does one speak about their greatest woes within 10 minutes of meeting someone? Initial sessions will focus on building comfort, feelings of safety, and getting to know both therapist and client. All goals and treatment plans will be made collaboratively, and will be completed as a conversation between us.
I've been told that my greatest strength is my compassion and willingness to learn. I truly care for all of my clients and I wish to see them grow into their most authentic and powerful selves. I am excited to see this growth and I am curious in who people will become when they find their peace. This curiosity allows me to be open to learn and adapt with my clients.
The core philosophy of narrative therapy is that individuals are the experts of their own lives. Experiences have shaped the way that people interpreted their selves and those around them. The focus of treatment will be on client's own narrative, identifying common themes found throughout, and work on deconstructing those narratives to gain clarity in one's own power.
The core philosophy of emotion focused therapy is that emotions are connected to needs, and that by working/processing these emotions you can help change distressful emotional states. The focus of this treatment style is to gain understanding of the root of one's emotions.
The core philosophy of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is that thought patterns influence one's perspective and by extension, one's reality. The focus of this treatment style is to identify distressing thought patterns that contribute to worsening emotional difficulties and develop new thought patterns to reduce emotional distress.