Janelle earned her bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Sociology at the University of Arkansas in May 2014 and graduated with her Master’s degree in counseling from Texas Woman’s University in May 2017. She is currently working on her Registered Play Therapist Certification in the state of Texas and certification in Sandtray Therapy.
Philosophy
“The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change”- Carl Rogers

There are always times in life when things can feel overwhelming, stressful, lonely, or discouraging. When emotions such as these arise, there is no shame in asking or receiving the extra support we all need during times of struggle. Through counseling, I believe every individual possesses the potential to discover and flourish into their best selves. Counseling is a growth process. By learning more about themselves and their limitations, I believe clients can discover their own solutions to current struggles; and have the ability to remain in a healthy state of psychological functioning as issues may arise in the future. It is my goal to provide a safe and caring space for you, to listen with empathy and kindness, and provide guidance in a respectful manner. I look forward to working together!

Special Areas of Interest
Play Therapy

“It is a happy talent to know how to play”- Ralph Waldo Emerson

Play is something I have so much passion for! I believe it can make such a positive change in the child’s life. We in play therapy consider play as the communication of a child to an adult, in which play becomes the conversation and the materials become the words within that conversation. Symbolically, the playroom provides children with a means of sharing their inner world. We provide a place in which the child can feel comfortable exploring their inner world within parameters of a predictable therapeutic relationship. My relationship with the child is characterized by empathy, genuineness, and acceptance to establish a trusting relationship. When a trusting relationship has been achieved, the child can then use play to express their most interpersonal world. That is the magic of play!

Teens

“Raise your words, not voice. It is rain that grows flowers, not thunder”- Rumi

Teens have it rough. There are constant changes going on within their lives, from friends to relationships with parents/guardians, as well as changes within themselves as they grow into young adulthood. I am here to work with teens who are experiencing severe anxiety, teens who may be withdrawing from their family and peers, and teens who have been abused and/or come from broken families. I believe it is paramount to give these children the support and compassion they deserve. Therapy will provide these teens with an outlet to de-stress, the opportunity to begin trusting others, multiple creative alternatives to talk therapy such as expressive arts, and the tools for coping within the future.

Young Adults

“The flower doesn’t dream of the bee. It blossoms & the bee comes”- Unknown

Young adulthood is a time of adjustment and responsibility. This time period is also filled with strain, anxiety, and changes in both friends and romantic relationships. I would love to work with young adults who may be overwhelmed and seeking support. Whether it be someone to bounce ideas off of or someone to confide in, I will be here to provide compassion and an “out of the box” perspective to a client’s situation in the pursuit of answers to life’s endeavors.