Thomas Efird, LCSW-S, EMDR Approved Consultant, Veteran

I've worked in the mental health field for over 25 years in serving in both the military and civilian settings. I specialize in treating unresolved trauma and the related issues, as well as depression, stress and anxiety. Traumatic issue include childhood abuse (physical, sexual, emotional abuse and neglect), sexual assault (including military), crime, theft, car accidents, grief, loss, combat, first responders, medical professionals, veterans (including moral injury) and poor leadership. My experience has taught me that most of the time depression and anxiety are unresolved emotional wounds that haven't been fully addressed. For over five years as a military provider, I achieved a 98% return to duty rate using EMDR. This includes working with service members and who had experienced a variety of issues including military sexual assault, combat, childhood abuse, anxiety, and depression among many other issues. My success was specific to my training and experience in EMDR. I have a down to earth style that has enabled me to help my clients heal from horrific experiences and to be able to truly enjoy life. My philosophy is based on the proverb "Give a person a fish, you feed them for a day. Teach a person to fish, you feed them for a lifetime." My goal is to have therapy be effective. I work with you to address your needs. I won’t waste your time-if after 5 sessions you aren’t seeing improvement, I will help you find a different therapist. Therapy shouldn't have to be a lifetime commitment.

My preference is to get to the root of the problem and help you resolve it. I believe there is a difference between "exploring your feelings" and resolving the underlying issue. Discussing feelings is nice, but it doesn't necessarily bring the resolution one would like to have. Addressing the core issue and resolving it ensures that you don't spend unnecessary time in distress or in therapy. I believe that self improvement is life long, counseling shouldn't be. Life is tough, we all know this and we all struggle from time to time. Going through ups and downs is one thing, getting the "blues" every now and again happens to us all. Someone who meets with a therapist has made a choice to get help. Going through ups and downs is one thing, but when it starts to affect you at work or home then it is time to look for support.

I view my role as a healer. As anyone who practices a craft, it takes years to develop and refine skills. Over the past 25 years, I have come to understand that every aspect of behavioral health in interconnected- emotional, spiritual and physical. I use this knowledge to ensure that I not only help you with the emotional issues, I also aid in addressing the physical and spiritual issues. My goal is for you to feel better so you can live your life.