About Me

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828-768-5440

[email protected]

I took my first psychology course in college, and knew then that I had found my calling. I'm fascinated by human behavior and optimistic about the changes we can make to live more satisfying and effective lives.  Whether you are interested in counseling for yourself, a friend, or a family member, you are welcome to call for a consultation. I look forward to hearing from you.

Education and Credentials:
M.A.Ed.   Counseling                   Western Carolina University
M.A.Ed.   Special Education       UNC-Chapel Hill
B.A.         Psychology                     UNC-Chapel Hill

Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor

Therapeutic Orientation:

I work primarily with teens, adults, and families experiencing difficulties around developmental and adjustment issues. Issues that often need to be addressed include:
  • ADHD symptoms and challenge
  • Body image and sexual identity
  • Family relationships and communication challenges
  • Grief and loss
  • Major life transitions
  • Peer relationships and peer pressure
  • Struggles for independence and autonomy
  • Trauma and PTSD
  • Understanding and managing stress
  • Your individual needs and concerns

I draw from a wide variety of models, seeking to provide therapy that is tailored to each client’s individual needs. Research has shown that the single most important factor in therapy’s effectiveness is the quality of the therapeutic relationship. Therefore I work to ensure that there is a sense of collaboration and trust throughout our work together.

In addition, I may draw from the following perspectives and modalities as indicated by client need:

 

  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
  • Dialectical Behavioral Therapy
  • Motivational Interviewing
  • Person-Centered Therapy
  • Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
  • Trauma Resiliency Model

I am mindful of the strong emotions that develop around personal developmental issues. I encourage my clients to identify and express those feelings, and to begin to understand their personal frames of reference.  I help clients and families to define what is important to them, to find their own strengths, and to look for ways in which those strengths can be used to address the area(s) of concern.  I often use a practical approach, focusing on the development of short and long-term goals, examining the potential consequences of various courses of action, and asking the client to look at what has and has not worked in the past. Further, I respectfully guide consideration of alternative perspectives and encourage the learning and use of mindfulness skills and strategies for managing and reducing stress.

Therapy will likely include an exploration of past experiences and relationships, and the way these continue to influence the present. While we can’t change what’s happened, it is possible to alter perceptions and interpretations in order to make peace with the past and move forward with optimism and confidence.

On occasion, there may be an issue which I feel will be more appropriately addressed by a specialist, such as a psychiatrist or medical doctor. If that should occur, a referral will be recommended.  While I cannot guarantee the services of other individuals or agencies, every precaution will be taken to direct you toward those with high standards of professional conduct.

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