I approach clients with an objective perspective, considering how all parts of their lives could impact their current life situation. I try my best to listen openly in an effort to hone in the primary concerns of clients.
While I view clients’ pasts as affecting who they are and their current perceptions, I tend to focus on helping to improve the present and future experiences of clients. It feels most empowering to help clients discover their own answers, so I prefer to ask questions rather than tell clients ‘what to do.’
Watching clients reach new insights and make positive life changes inspires me to continue learning myself, and continue to help clients grow. I have been working with clients on improving their lives since 2007. I hope my genuine belief in human resilience and the possibility for positive change becomes contagious with my clients.
I have extensive training and have received certification in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (focused on substance abuse recovery), and CDCA (Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant), and also hold the Supervisor Credential (SUPV). By using a cognitive behavioral focus, and incorporating mindfulness and empathic listening, I help clients feel empowered over their own life experience. My specific areas of focus include, but are not limited to: individual adult, adolescent (15 and older), couples/relationship issues, parenting, communication, depression, anxiety, other mood disorders, PTSD, grief/loss, body image/weight concerns, self-esteem, and life transitions.
When I am not in a counseling session, I maintain my own mental health balance by exercising, spending time with my family, enjoying the outdoors, cooking, and listening to music. I love learning new things, reading a great book, and trying new restaurants. My two daughters and my husband keep me on my toes and remind me to laugh as often as possible.