What do you view as a key component of the therapeutic relationship?
I view nonjudgemental listening as a key component of the therapeutic relationship. I believe, it has allowed my clients to feel that they are heard, as well as a sense of safety. I strive to create a nonjudgmental, safe, empathetic environment for all my clients.
How do you determine therapy goals with clients? What does that process look like?
Therapy goals are determine by the client. My experience has been the the majority of clients enter therapy with some sense or a specific goal(s) they would like to work on. If that is not the case, I will collaboratively work with the client to identify their goal(s). The process would be perhaps involve a discussion around the concern(s) that brought them to therapy or asking them to imagine 3 to 6 months of us working together , what changes would they be hoping for? Once goals are identified we will discuss how I can help in them achieving their desired goals.
What was your path to becoming a therapist? What inspired you to choose this profession?
There are several reasons, I believe, I have always been on the path of becoming a therapist. First, because , I have always had a desire to help those who may have been in emotional distress. Secondly, because, I always been curious regarding the mind and human behavior. I would often ponder questions such as "how does the mind work", "why do humans act the way they do?" and or "how can people make changes that can improve their mental health, thus dramatically changing their lives?" Early on , I was given an opportunity to volunteer at a counseling agency in my city. This agency worked with underprivileged youth. I was immediately touched by their stories and greatly impressed by the skilled therapist who work with the youth. Their ability to create a safe, nonjudgmental and nurturing environment allowed each child to tackle/resolve painful concerns. This allowed them to blossom moving from destructive behaviors/thoughts to healthier ones. This dramatically changed the trajectory of each client. Seeing the results of effective therapy and working with this team of therapists, my three questions were answered. This bolstered my desire to enter the mental health profession knowing that one day, I too could make a difference in individual lives.
Specialties
Abuse/Survivors of abuse
Abuse includes any significant mistreatment along the lines of psychical, emotional, sexual, verbal, and neglect. Survivors of abuse may experience negative thoughts and feelings, flashbacks, distrust of others, social withdrawal, self-harm, and increased likelihood of developing mental health and substance abuse issues.
Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
PTSD is a condition that is precipitated by a perceived terrifying event. This event need not occur directly to the person but may happen vicariously—having seen something terrible happen to another person. The condition may last months or years while symptoms include ruminating thoughts, flashbacks, nightmares, intense anxiety when triggered, and potential substance abuse in attempt to cope.
Trauma
Trauma is the result of experiencing a perceived, extremely distressful event. Although the stress threshold for each person differs, meaning that each person considers and experiences trauma differently, it is an event that tops one’s threshold. It exceeds one’s ability to cope or emotionally process. Symptoms may include shock, anxiety, confusion, hopelessness, feeling disconnected, mood swings, nightmares, and intrusive thoughts.
General Expertise
Anxiety
Anxiety can mean nervousness, worry, or self-doubt. Anxiety disorder is a mental health disorder that entails excessive, repeated bouts of worry, anxiety, and/or fear.
Relationship Issues
Refers relationship issues with a partner or spouse. Can include issues related to relationship distress, relationship satisfaction, communication, intimacy, etc.
Loss/Grief
Grief is a reaction to an emotionally significant loss and often comes with symptoms of depression or anxiety. These symptoms can remain intense and last for a long time after a loss, making it difficult to move forward with a healthy lifestyle.
Self-Esteem
Self-esteem is the degree to which a person feels confident, valuable, and worthy of respect. Feeling low self-esteem can influence overall well-being and be linked to anxiety and/or depression.
Race & Cultural Identity
Challenges around race and cultural identity vary enormously, including issues related to discrimination, racism, and intergenerational trauma.
Fees
$130
First Session
$130
Individual Therapy
Types of Therapy
Individual Session
Clientele
Young Adults (18-24)
Adults (25-65)
Seniors (65+)
Treatment Approaches / Modalities
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Training / Certifications
Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) Basic Training, Trauma Therapy Certificate- Trauma Support Services of North Texas, Trauma Model Therapy Certification - The Colin Ross Institute for Psychological Trauma
Licensure
TX, LCSW, 16161
Education
Master Social Work - Clinical - Clark Atlanta University,
Work History
My career as a social worker began 10 years ago. I have worked in various settings such as, military bases, both in/out patient psychiatric hospitals, college/universities and non-profit community agencies. The counseling services provided in these settings included- crisis intervention, conducting individual and group psychotherapy and psycho-education groups. Through, these experiences not only was, I afforded the opportunity to develop excellent clinical skills, but also the ability to work effectively with diverse populations. In the last several years, I've worked at Colin Ross Trauma Center. As a result of this experience, I specialize in working with developmental/psychological trauma. In working with clients no matter their concerns, it's always my goal to create a safe, nonjudgmental space which allows individuals to heal, grow and achieve their desired goals. I have had the privilege of assisting many clients and helping them create the lives they desire.
Location
--------, --------, 75028, TX