My Approach to Helping
My clients often describe me as laid back, patient, and genuine. I strive to foster a safe and supportive environment in which my clients can gain insight, learn to set healthy boundaries, and make positive decisions and changes. I take a skills-based approach in a more relaxed way that often incorporates humor.
I believe the relationship between the therapist and client is a significant factor in success. I encourage active feedback from my clients as to what is and is not working for them and we work together to develop a plan and goals that feel realistic, manageable and tailored to their individual needs. I often work with clients that have had negative experiences in the past with therapy, or who have never been in therapy as my approach tends to put people at ease.
We explore and process past attachment patterns to identify connections to current relationships, moods, and behaviors in order to promote growth and change. I work to have my clients leave sessions feeling a sense of hope, relief, and having felt seen and heard. We can explore complex concepts and emotions in a nonjudgmental environment from the comfort of your own home.
I welcome questions, comments and concerns through my email.
More Info About My Practice
I am fully virtual licensed in both Michigan and Louisiana. While I loved being in the office for the first 11 years of my career, the past two years have showed me how meaningful virtual can be for people. Consider not having to take additional time off for commuting, being in the safety of your own space while processing complex emotions, and bonus - pets are welcome on screen too.
I keep my caseload small in order to offer weekly appointments to each client and to give my full attention, time and support. I have daytime hours of 9am - 2 pm Monday through Thursday with some flexibility as needed. Please email soulyoullc@gmail.com with any questions.
My View on the Purpose of Psychotherapy
I believe that while not everyone "Needs" therapy, everyone can benefit from it. Therapy provides a place for you to be the most authentic, most vulnerable you without fear of judgement or rejection. Therapy is not to get advice but to explore and process thoughts, feelings, wants, and desires that may be hidden from others or even yourself. Therapy is at least one hour each week where you get to be the sole focus, the center of attention for what is maybe the only hour that week.
Had a Negative Therapy Experience?
This is an area I consider my niche. I have had so many clients come to me over the years frustrated, disappointed, or even hurt by previous therapy experiences. I always admire and respect clients that have the courage to "try again" and put themselves out there despite previous experiences. The two most common concerns I hear are that the therapist talked too much about themselves or the client felt they "Just talked" and did not learn anything or see changes. I hope to provide an experience that counters these concerns by checking in with my clients, clarifying, asking questions, staying curious and staying focused on what the client wants and needs. I welcome any questions about this process or what may be different this time around.
The Duration and Frequency of Therapy
While everyone is different, weekly therapy is a common starting point for most clients. We gather background information, explore presenting concerns, get to know each other and begin to set and work on goals. Over time as the relationship is solidified and coping skills are gained, sessions can decrease to biweekly and eventually monthly at which point you are in a maintenance phase yet continue to have a secure point of contact.
Clinicians who offer sliding scale payment structures may offer lower or reduced fees based on an individual's ability to pay. Please contact this clinician for more details regarding their fees or sliding scale policy.