My Approach to Helping
I am experienced in working with children, adolescents, and adults. I work closely with clients to find strategies and solutions that will work for them which include making healthy, positive choices. I have found that clients usually know that something is wrong but they need help to identify problem areas and to learn how to make appropriate changes.
Clients often feel embarrassed or weak when asking for help with personal issues. It is my sincere belief that it is not a sign of weakness, but of strength and determination, to seek out help during difficult times in one's life. I believe that we all can learn a great deal from each other: how to be kinder, more caring, patient, and compassionate. I feel blessed to have the opportunity to work with clients who want to make positive changes in their lives.
More Info About My Practice
Office: I use a cognitive behavioral approach when working with clients in my office. Sessions are 50 minutes in length and include time spent with child and adult clients, and extended family, if needed. I help them see how their thinking leads to the choices they make, and how they can change their thinking to make healthy life changes.
Please contact me about your insurance coverage. I am an in-network provider for:
Aetna
APS
Blue Cross/Blue Shield - PPO (not Biodyne)
Cigna
Humana
MHN
UnitedHealthcare
Schools: I work with students and teachers in classrooms focusing on such issues as bullying prevention, class cohesion, grief and loss, organizational skills, social skills, study skills, and school success. I consult with school personnel to assist students in working to their full potential and to help schools create safer environments for students and staff.
Communities: I conduct presentations, workshops, and seminars for churches, businesses, and other community groups on issues involving children and families. These topics include communication techniques, discipline vs. punishment, family cohesiveness, grief and loss, respect for self and others, school success, separation, divorce, and remarriage.
What I Love about Being a Psychotherapist
I love being a therapist because I am able to use a combination of education, training, and life experiences to help my clients reach a happier and more fulfilled place in their lives. I feel honored to be a part of the changes they want to make. I am careful to treat every client with respect and positive regard. I want them to leave their sessions feeling safer, more relaxed, healthier, and happier.
My Role as a Therapist
My role as therapist is similar to being a co-pilot. I am there to support, guide, and give directions and feedback, but not force my clients to go in a direction that they may not be ready to go in, even if I think that it will help. This is not my journey, it is theirs, and I respect that.
Important Factors for Choosing a Therapist
Clients will be more likely to do the work that they desire if they feel respected by their therapist and feel safe as they share their personal stories. Therapy is a very personal and individual experience. Clients need to feel connected to their therapist in order for them to share personal information and bring down the walls that they may have put up to protect them from more pain.