Philosophy
Life is always offering up struggles and hardships and we all have times when we need someone to walk along side us to help us to find our own strength and purpose. I strive to be present with my clients, while offering compassion and encouragement towards growth, understanding and perseverance in difficult times. I have worked in both community mental health settings and private settings. When it is requested by the client, I offer spiritual guidance, through Christian principals. I help clients gain understanding of God's purpose and presence during hardships in a supportive, confidential setting. I believe that as people become more aware of their thoughts, actions, emotions and beliefs that they have increased ability to face challenges and overcome difficult situations more successfully. It takes some people longer to achieve this goal than others.
Faith
It is my belief that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. I believe He led a sinless life, died on the cross and was resurrected from death by the power of God. I believe that through confession of our sin and through Jesus' death we can be forgiven and have a personal relationship with Christ. The Bible is my ultimate authority. This is the lens through which I view life’s suffering, pain, healing and restoration. I offer my education and experience in the integration of psychology and theology for people who desire Christian counseling. While my Christian beliefs influence the way I understand life circumstances, I see clients from all backgrounds and respect the views of each individual client. I also work hard to not push my beliefs on to anyone and try my best to meet my client where they are in their faith journey.
Bio
I graduated from Appalachian State University with a Bachelor's of Science in Sociology, Concentration in Family Development and a Minor in Psychology. From there I attended Denver Seminary where I received my Master of Arts in Community Counseling. I have a wide array of counseling experience. I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, families and couples. During Graduate School I focused on Divorce Recovery and Women’s Issues. The majority of my post-graduate work has involved working with Children and Adolescents diagnosed with Conduct, Mood and Personality Disorders. I also specialize in Women’s Issues including Depression and Anxiety. I am a Registered Play Therapist (T4759), which allows me to utilize play therapy with Children and Adolescents. I also have experience working in emergency/crisis situations, in which psychosis and lethality were often present. I also serve the adult population, including the treatment of mood disorders and adjustment disorders. I have led adult Dialectical Behavior Therapy groups as well as Coping and Social Skills groups for children and teens.