Condalette ArteroLCMHC

I believe that the first session is so important. Therapy begins when you are able to trust the process. I understand that it can be difficult to speak to a stranger about things that are affecting your mental and emotional health. So, I will work initially to build the therapeutic relationship so you can gain trust in the overall process. I will provide psychoeducation that includes what you can expect from me during our work together and how you can contribute to your own success. I will generally complete a bio-psycho-social assessment during the first session to gather information about your presenting concerns and how it is affecting various areas of functioning. We will generally close out the session with a discussion on developing a treatment plan to improve presenting symptoms and overall functioning.

I primarily work from a person-centered approach. I view therapy as a collaborative process. I will supply a safe space with unconditional positive regard, support and guidance so you can discover your own strengths and solutions. However, I consider myself very much an eclectic therapist, as I structure my approach based on the unique needs of you, the client. I will often incorporate Cognitive Behavioral, Mindfulness, Solution Focused, and Narrative approaches among others to discover what will work best for your unique needs.

One of the biggest barriers that still exists in mental health is that of stigma. We need to talk about mental health. We need to normalize therapy. Mental Health is part of overall health. I am passionate about working to end the stigma surrounding mental health treatment and I believe making therapy more easily accessible is a good step in that process. Online therapy is an important part of this. Individuals can more easily access services when they need them and from the comfort and safety of their own home. Therapists can meet individuals "where they are" and provide support in a way that has not really been available until recently. Increasing access to services is a good step in decreasing the overall stigma surrounding mental health treatment.

• North Carolina, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, 13869

I have four years of experience in providing counseling services to adults and children, and another year of providing crisis counseling and case management services as a victim's advocate. I have a special interest in Women’s issues including substance abuse and trauma. In my career, I have spent time as a crisis counselor at a Domestic Violence shelter and an advocate for women who have experienced sexual assault. I completed my Counseling Practicum and Internship at a residential substance abuse program for women and their children. I have worked in my local Department of Social Services providing substance abuse assessments and consultation to felons and others seeking county services. Additionally, I have spent time working at a community mental health agency working with all ages to provide therapy, assessment and case management services. I have an eclectic counseling style, which is primarily rooted in Person-Centered therapy, but also includes elements of Cognitive Behavioral, Narrative, and Solution-Focused Brief therapy, as well as Mindfulness techniques. I believe in the power of thoughts to drive emotional and behavioral responses, and provide a safe place for clients to express these thoughts and feelings, while teaching coping skills to lessen symptoms.