Approach to Treatment

I use different techniques with different clients, so the approach fits the person. Some people are more interested in changing their thinking, while others are more interested in changing their feelings, emotions or their behavior. Some issues are resolved relatively easily in a few sessions while other issues require many therapy sessions.

My goals in therapy include helping clients improve decision-making skills, cope more effectively with anxiety, or deal with other issues. Clients learn to use their strengths more effectively, learn how to tolerate and become less limited by their weaknesses, and also learn how to deal with internal conflict. I often work with people who have trauma, grief, life transition issues, and those that are introverted, highly sensitive or have chronic pain/illness. I also help adults learn to communicate effectively with their parents.

Theoretical Orientation

Occasionally, a client asks about my professional theoretical orientation. I favor the person-centered therapy that is offered by the humanistic approach of Carl Rogers.

Rogers encouraged clients to live their own lives, not to live by the standards of others. He approached clients genuinely and honestly and encouraged therapists to accept clients without judgment. I strongly believe that the therapeutic relationship can propel therapy forward, along with hard work and dedication from both therapist and client.

Experience

I completed my Masters of Counseling degree from Tennessee State University in 2008 and my Doctorate of Philosophy in School Psychology from Tennessee State University in 2012. I chose to have different graduate programs to expand my educational experiences. I work with clients aged 16 and older. I am a Licensed Psychologist in the state of Tennessee (TN #3103).  In my time in academics and as a provider, I have worked in schools, outpatient private practice and in intensive outpatient treatment settings.  I have a background that includes a diverse group of clients.

Acceptance is not love. You love a person because he or she has lovable traits, but you accept everybody just because they’re alive and human. – Albert Ellis