What do you view as a key component of the therapeutic relationship?
I see the key component of therapy as trust. A client can trust that I am present for them in each session. That I bring with me care and an analytical eye so that their problem can be addressed. Having the trust of my clients pushes me to continue developing myself professionally. I stay current on research and best practice. I work hard to maintain that trust, to maintain a warm and beneficial therapeutic relationship and to assist them in moving forward. Also, through that trust, honest feedback can be given so that the therapeutic experience can be the best fit for the client.
What was your path to becoming a therapist? What inspired you to choose this profession?
I chose this profession for a few different reasons. I have always been a great listener, people have always felt safe talking to me. And I have always enjoyed a deeper level of conversation. When I discovered that such a profession exists (when I was 12, my uncle is a therapist and shared with me what he did), I knew what I would do for a career. I worked hard through school, university and graduate school to develop my skill set to be the best therapist I could be. And then I continued to seek out professional development to deepen and enhance that skill set. I enjoy being able to help others. I appreciate everyone's personal journey and each unique issue that gets in the way of expressing their best self. I also thoroughly appreciate and value the therapeutic relationship. I feel blessed to be able to make a difference in someone's life.
If there was one thing you wish people knew about the therapy experience who might be hesitant to try it, what would that be?
Sometimes I hear that therapy is for the severely ill. That there is a stigma on receiving care. This is an old and outdated belief. Therapy is for everyone and anyone that wishes to become the best version of themselves. It allows for a full hour of undivided attention. An hour where you can be 100% honest and receive back a nonjudgemental and professionally tailored response. It provides critical insights, allows for a safe space that is empathetic and warm so that you can continue to peel through the layers of your life and self without the fear of being judged. It allows you to feel heard and not alone in your hardship. It breaks thoughts and beliefs that are damaging to your well-being and creates more functional ones. It allows for an uplift and a step into a more positive reality. Therapy is for everyone and anyone that wants the best. It is a strength, a privilege, and a wondrous opportunity for all.
Specialties
Anxiety
Self-Esteem
Abuse/Survivors of abuse
Trauma
General Expertise
Social Anxiety
Anorexia nervosa
Binge eating disorder
Bipolar disorder
Body dysmorphia
Body image issues
Bulimia nervosa
Identity development
Fees
$130
First Session
$115
Individual Therapy
Types of Therapy
Individual Session
Clientele
Young Adults (18-24)
Adults (25-65)
Seniors (65+)
Treatment Approaches / Modalities
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy
Person-Centered Therapy
Psychoanalytic Therapy
Solution-Focused Brief Therapy
Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy
Training / Certifications
Dialectical Behavior Therapy certified
Trauma informed
Cognitive Behavior Therapy certified
Licensure
FL, LMHC, 17850
MI, LPC, 6401007794
LA, LPC, 8617
Education
Masters of Science, Counseling, University of Tennessee
Bachelor of Arts, Psychology, Michigan State University
Work History
I have a bulk of my experience coming from a private practice setting. I have specialized in trauma work, including childhood trauma and sexual assault as well as anxiety disorders. I am also extensively trained in Cognitive Behavior Therapy. I have worked with all populations over the 20+ years of experience I have.
Location
25400 US Highway 19, Clearwater, 34698, FL