What’s the most profound, insightful, or interesting thing you’ve learned as a mental health professional?
As a mental health professional, I have learned each and everyone of us has a story that matters. The most profound insight in which I have experienced this, both personally and professionally is each life situation, experience, both good and challenging, become a part of the fabric of my life which allows me to live life to the fullest.
How do you determine therapy goals with clients? What does that process look like?
The therapy goals are determined by the client with utilizing assessment tools and therapist impute. It is my belief as a therapist, each and every one of us has inner strengths and strategies. The therapy goals are developed through a collaborative effort by both the client and therapist to facilitate personal growth, increase self esteem and develop proactive coping strategies to deal effectively with life challenges.
What does a first session with you look like?
Our first session is the most important. It invites you to share what’s been going on in your life, what’s on your mind, what’s bothering you, or whether there are any goals you’d like to discuss. You’ll be invited to speak openly and ask questions. It is an opportunity for you to feel comfortable with me and determine if we are a good fit.
Specialties
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.
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.
Codependency
Involves a person sacrificing their needs to meet the needs of others. Their thoughts and actions center on a significant other, spouse, friend, or relative. Becomes an issue when relationships are unbalanced and unhealthy.
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.
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.
Work Stress
Workplace issues are a common source of stress and can include interpersonal conflict, communication problems, gossip, harassment, discrimination, low motivation and job satisfaction, performance issues, and poor job fit.
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.
Race & Cultural Identity
Challenges around race and cultural identity vary enormously, including issues related to discrimination, racism, and intergenerational trauma.
Fees
$150
First Session
$100
Family Therapy
$100
Couples Therapy
$100
Individual Therapy
Types of Therapy
Family Session
Couples Session
Individual Session
Clientele
Parents
Young Adults (18-24)
Adults (25-65)
Seniors (65+)
Treatment Approaches / Modalities
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Mindfulness Practices
Culturally Sensitive Therapy
Emotionally Focused Therapy
Interpersonal Psychotherapy
Multicultural Therapy
Person-Centered Therapy
Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy
Training / Certifications
National Red Cross Mental Health Disaster Training
Licensure
WI, LPC, 2321-125
Education
MS in Counseling, UW LaCrosse, LaCrosse WI.
Post Graduate courses Psychology at UW-Madison, Madison, WI.
BS in Recreational Therapy, UW LaCroose, La Crosse WI.
Work History
YOUR STORY MATTERS. I have been in the Mental Health field for over 35 years in an array of services areas. I have worked with Individuals, couples and families. I have been a military provider, a national red cross disaster volunteer, and an adjunct faculty teaching undergraduate and graduate courses in the field of counseling. My specialty is working successfully with Individuals with Traumatic Brain Injury and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. With a Native American heritage, I offer a holistic approach to therapy of mind, spirit, and body
Location
Remote Therapist, Portage, 53901, WI