I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida with 17 years of professional counseling experience working with persons of different walks of life. I have an extensive history working with adolescents who present with various emotional and behavioral issues; to include criminal, sexual and behavioral issues, mood issues, substance abuse and family issues. I have a great track record with working with women of all ages who have a hard time adjusting to life stressors (example dealing with the combination of being a mom, a wife, working in corporate America; post COVID-19 issues). In addition to working with individuals, I also assist couples and families. I have a post graduate certification in Marriage and Family counseling and take a systems approach to help couples and families have improved relationships. I have a passion for assisting ethnic couples and families filter through daily stressors and cultural influences that often affect relationships. I have had positive experiences in helping clients with relationship issues, building life skills, working through family conflicts, infidelity, adjustment, trauma and abuse. People come to therapy for various reasons. I am here to help with whatever you are going through. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. I use a holistic approach and will engage you in a myriad of techniques that will get you on the train moving toward being the best you and having satisfying relationships with self and/or others. I want the therapeutic process to be helpful and worthwhile. I am creative and think outside the box; using spunk, compassion and a nonjudgmental attitude to develop a working rapport with my clients. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! I look forward to working with you!
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
In our first session we will get to know each other and talk about what to expect in therapy. We will talk about the partnership that will take place and note if "we" are a good fit. We will explore client goals, expected participation and commitment to the process. We will learn to engage with each other in a professional, fun, and safe environment. Clients will be able to safely explore and express their thoughts and feelings; be able to recognize and feel empowered to connect with and portray personal strengths. Come ready to work.
What treatment methods and tools do you utilize?
Through the years, I have equipped myself with various tools in my therapeutic toolbox. Tools hand-picked for the specific need presented by the client. I have been trained in multiple treatment modalities. I most often use techniques that are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Systems Therapy approaches. I am trained in trauma responsive and culturally sensitive techniques. I often give application of the skills activities for clients to practice the skills learned in session. For example, these activities can be in form of worksheets, movies, interactive activities with others, journaling, self-care activities, meditation, guided breathing, exercise, spiritual exploration, and affirmations.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
I am great with building strong working relationships (rapport) with my clients. Therapy is hard at times, and I do well with making my clients feel comfortable with being themselves, talking about difficult things, laughing and crying when necessary. Let's talk about what you want to talk about. Want to use slang, want to dance, let's do that too. However, we can relate (in a ethical way), let's do it. Creating a safe place to safely discuss culturally sensitive and topics that affect minority groups are of importance.