Christal Rose WardLMFT, LMHC

A client will realize success in the healing experience when they are at peace with the decisions that they have made for themselves based on the information, tools and resources they have received while in therapy. A clients readiness to change relies solely on them, and success determined when they are satisfied with their choices in a way that shows a higher level of functioning in the goals that they have set for themselves.

The path of counseling was not one that I chose, but instead was chosen for me by God. Counseling is my calling...and was always a very natural part of who I was, and still am today. I do what I do because it is a part of my purpose. It is an integal part of me

One of the biggest themes that I see in working with people who have experienced trauma is a deep fear and avoidance of connecting to the painful memories of the past. It is that avoidance, that keeps people stuck in a vicious cycle of torment that bleeds over into other areas of their lives. Until you can face the demons of the past and feel, the wounds that have been avoided and numbed for years then true healing cannot happen. This is how I guide my clients in doing thier work to overcome the trauma wounds that are creating negative coping patterns in their everyday lives.

• Florida, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, MT3557
• Florida, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MH15620

I began my work history in a residential program for at risk youth who were adjudicated for criminal offenses and substances abuse related issues. My love for the kids and my desire to help them overcome their behavioral and emotional battles led me to work in residential programs with adults (who also suffered from) addiction and trauma related issues. When I look at my specialities and how they were honed in the residential programs and rehabs of my community I am humbled that I get to continue my journey of helping individuals, families, couples, and communities heal . As a trauma informed therapist with a background in addictions, and co-occurring disorders I have taken experience into the institutions of schools (through my work with adolescents in the school system with trauma issues, family issues, emotional regulation issues etc.), private practice (doing trauma and substance abuse groups, and working with individual, couples, and families, intensive outpatient practices, and now telehealth therapy.