In what ways does your personality influence your approach to therapy?
I view my career choice as an extension of my world view, which can be summed up in the Golden Rule; “treat others as you would have them treat you,” fairly, with dignity and respect, as equals, in a non judgmental way, viewing each person based on the “content of their character” as well as their potential. My philosophy and personality are a reflection of my values, and world view; in a word, integrity; and my therapeutic approach, is a coaching and motivational style, to support and encourage clients to reach their full potential. I view my career choice in counseling as a calling, based on my gifts of a “pastoral” nature, as a leader/mentor, facilitating change through teaching effective coping strategies such as Cognitive Behavioral Skills, establishing and maintaining trust, which is the foundation of any healthy relationship, so that clients may find a more balanced life, a guide, a road map for recovery.
Is there any research-based work you’ve done that you found particularly exciting, and how has that informed your practice today?
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) and Rational EmotiveTherapy (REBT) are evidenced-based theories that are very practical and effective in treating most every mental health, and or dually diagnosed (mental health and substance abuse) issues. Based on the concept that replacing and training our thoughts to be rational, rooted in reality and truth, It focuses mostly on the present, or practicing ‘Mindfulness,’ (avoiding ruminating over the past, or worry about the future), and to help you understand how unhealthy thoughts and beliefs create emotional distress which, in turn, leads to unhealthy actions and behaviors that interfere with your current life goals. Once identified and understood, negative thoughts and actions can be changed and replaced with more positive and productive behavior, allowing you to develop more successful personal and professional relationships.” In practice, these learned skills “can help you with negative emotions such as anxiety, depression, guilt, and extreme or inappropriate anger, as well as substance abuse, or addictive behaviors.”This approach is also used to help change stressful and self-defeating behaviors, such as aggression, unhealthy eating, and procrastination;” obstacles that prevent attaining to a more satisfying, and balanced lifestyle, and reaching your personal and career goals.
What is your style/approach to therapy?
My therapeutic style, which is rooted in evidence-based, effective and practical Cognitive Behavioral, and Motivational Therapy, is coaching, holistic, strengths-based (utilizing clients’ own strengths and resources), learning and applying new coping skills, and finding viable solutions to assist in finding a balanced, happier, healthier and wholesome lifestyle.
Specialties
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.
Addiction
Regular involvement with a substance or activity in a compulsive, hard to control way that often has harmful consequences. Often refers to substance use, but can include compulsive behaviors such as sex, gambling, or shopping.
Life coaching
Process designed to equip people with tools, motivation, and inspiration necessary to make positive change and maximize personal and professional potential. Life coaches are generally helpful during life transitions or for goal setting and completion.
Spirituality & religion based issues
Spirituality and religion, to a great extent, shape our moral principles, beliefs, and values. They have a role in shaping our behavior and in our relationships. Issues may include questioning one’s faith, loss of faith, struggling to find meaning, and living a life incongruent with one’s belief.
Substance abuse
Substance abuse is the intentional misuse of a substances (e.g., alcohol, prescription drugs, OTC medications, recreational and street drugs, household chemicals). This may include binge drinking or taking twice the prescribed dose of painkillers. For substances considered illegal and/or extremely detrimental to well-being, using even once may be considered substance abuse. Because of the addiction potential for many substances, abuse oftentimes leads to addiction.
General Expertise
Depression
Depression often causes people to feel sad, empty, or hopeless, and can cause a lack of interest in life. It can also affect a person's thinking patterns and physical health.
Careers
Designed to help people choose, change, or leave a career at any stage of life. Careers are often wrapped up in people’s perceived identity, therefore, any change can cause anxiety and/or depression.
Relationship Issues
Refers relationship issues with a partner or spouse. Can include issues related to relationship distress, relationship satisfaction, communication, intimacy, etc.
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.
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.
In-Network Insurance
New Directions Florida Blue
Fees
$100
First Session
$100
Family Therapy
$95
Couples Therapy
$95
Individual Therapy
Types of Therapy
Family Session
Couples Session
Individual Session
Clientele
Parents
Young Adults (18-24)
Adults (25-65)
Seniors (65+)
Children (5-12)
Adolescents (13-17)
Treatment Approaches / Modalities
Strength Based Therapy
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Coaching
Existential Therapy
Interpersonal Psychotherapy
Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy
Motivational Interviewing
Person-Centered Therapy
Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT)
Solution-Focused Brief Therapy
Pastoral & Faith Based Counseling
Training / Certifications
LCSW- 10 years, MSW-21 years experience, and 15+ years of volunteer, community service and outreach.
Licensure
FL, LCSW, SW10938
Education
MSW, Florida International University (Magna CumLaude)
BA, Southeastern College, Lakeland Florida (Summa CumLaude) (Trifold degree-Psychology, Pastoral Counseling, & Biblical Studies).
Work History
I have served for 20 years, with various age groups, with my forte in crisis, substance abuse/addictions, dually diagnosed and related codependency issues; Most mental health issues; faith-based counseling from a Biblical perspective, and family therapy.
Location
Serving all of Florida, Daytona Beach, 32114, FL