Education

BA, Psychology and Education

MA, Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Liberty University

Pursuing doctorate in Marriage and Family Therapy from Liberty University

 

Certifications and Training

National Certified Counselor

American College of Sports Medicine Certified Exercise Physiologist

Licensed Massage Therapist

Saving Your Marriage Before it Starts Premarital Counseling Certification

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Trauma with Beck Institute

Member of the Focus on the Family Christian Counselor Network

PESI Certified Trauma Professional

Beck Institute Trainings in Cognitive Behavior Therapy for:

 

Therapeutic Approach

A therapeutic counseling relationship is one of warmth, empathy and compassion. I believe in a collaborative approach to this helping relationship in which I work with clients to help them develop personalized counseling goals and a plan to work together to reach those goals. I follow a wellness model of mental health in which the goal is to achieve positive mental health to the degree it is possible for each client. Every client has individual needs, and I use various counseling techniques to best meet the needs of each client. Many of these techniques align with cognitive behavioral and person-centered counseling theories. As I work with clients, I help them identify and build upon their strengths as they seek joy and peace in their lives. I am a person of faith and offer Christian counseling to those who request it.

 

Treatment Issues

Depression, anxiety-related problems, narcissism, bipolar disorder, trauma, OCD, relationship/marital issues, low self-concept, and spiritual problems

 

Treatment Population

I work with adolescents (ages 15 and up), adults, and couples.

 

My Journey

My husband and I have been passionately married for over 30 years. We have four adult children and one daughter-in-ove (law). A highlight of my professional journey was working in the residential Nedley Depression and Anxiety Recovery Program assisting the program director. I have also been the associate director for four eight-week community-based Nedley Depression and Anxiety Recovery Programs. I have a passion for working with adolescents and adults, especially those suffering with depression, anxiety, OCD, relationship conflict, trauma, PTSD, low self-esteem, or emotional stress. My goal is to create a safe space with empathy, warmth and compassion where clients can share their story and we can work together toward resolving difficulties in the physical, emotional, mental and spiritual areas of their lives.

 

Favorite Quote

“Peace I leave with you; My peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” -John 16.33

Recommended Reading

The Desire of Ages by EG White

The Hidden Half of the Gospel: How His Suffering Can Heal Yours by Paul Coneff

The Human Magnet Syndrome: The Codependent/Narcissist Trap by Ross Rosenberg