Heather Runyon, MS
Licensed Professional Counselor
Mental Health Services Provider
Education
MA Counseling Psychology, Lee University
MA Christian Psychological Studies, Richmont Graduate University
BA, Psychology; English; International Studies with a Spanish Emphasis, Southern Adventist University
Certifications and Training
National Certified Counselor
Therapeutic Approach
I believe in listening to, educating, and supporting clients, giving them space in which to grow, while implementing research-based, solution-focused methods. I strive to give clients tools so they can help themselves to achieve their own goals. This often includes creating and maintaining a healthy support system as well as looking at holistic health concepts. I draw from Cognitive-Behavioral, Family Systems, and Solution-Focused treatment modalities.
Treatment Issues
I enjoy working with clients toward overcoming mental, emotional, and social challenges including depression, anxiety, past trauma and abuse, grief, sexual identity, codependency and addictive tendencies, relational issues, cultural adjustment and re-acculturation, etc.
Treatment Population
I counsel adults and adolescents as well as individuals, couples, and families. I counsel in English and Spanish.
My Journey
My interest in people and relationships started in childhood. I enjoy learning about similarities and differences between individuals, genders, personalities, and cultures. This interest has led me to work in Taiwan and Mexico, study in Spain, and travel to more than 40 countries. I love to combine travel with service because it gives me an opportunity to learn about a culture in ways the average tourist does not. I have taught English, but I enjoy teaching life and relationship skills even more. I have counseling experience in private practice, university, and government mental health settings.
Favorite Quote
"It's never too late to be what you might have been." -George Eliot
Recommended Reading
The Dance of Anger: A Woman's Guide to Changing the Patterns of Intimate Relationships, by Harriet Lerner, Ph.D. (It's good for men, too!)