My Approach to Helping
If you're on the fence about whether counseling is for you, call or email to schedule a free initial appointment.
My approach to counseling is tailored to the specific needs of my clients and is grounded in a secure client-therapist relationship. Interventions are selected based on current empirically supported treatment options and the unique needs of the client(s).
In the session, you can expect confidentiality, a skillful and empathic therapist who can recognize problems and identify solutions, and relief from symptoms that you recognize and those that you may not.
More Info About My Practice
I work with clients who are interested in addressing their concerns, formulating goals, and identifying solutions in a collaborative, therapeutic relationship. I hold masters degrees in both Mental Health Counseling and Theological Studies, and I am currently a Ph.D. candidate in Counselor Education and Supervision and a Graduate Teaching Associate at The Ohio State University. I have experience working with adults, adolescents, children, couples, and groups. I welcome clients from diverse backgrounds and have experience treating a wide range of presenting concerns.
What I Usually Need to Know to Help
When clients first present for counseling, I'm interested in the following: What brings you to counseling? What kind of social supports do you have? How long has your concern caused you distress? How often does it cause you distress? What is the severity of your distress (scale of 1-10)? What have you tried to alleviate your distress? What would you like me to know about you?
Most importantly, questions such as these help me to get to know you. Additionally, answers to these questions provide me with an initial understanding of your presenting concerns and help me establish a baseline to which we can return after a period of time to determine if and how you are improving.
The Duration and Frequency of Therapy
How long does counseling take? Simply put, it varies. Factors such as the severity of concerns, social support, coping styles, and others can make counseling brief (e.g. 4 sessions) or longer term (e.g. 12+ sessions). After the initial session, I provide a personalized treatment plan, outlining the direction and duration of counseling. While the investments of time, energy, and finances are not insignificant, the benefits often outweigh the costs.
