TerryAnn Dumyahn Licensed Indépendant Clinical Social Worker

Typically my first question is, "What would you like counseling to do for you?" I like to start with the end in mind so we can decide if we are on the right path or not. I give homework for in between sessions to help people practice skills and try new ways of thinking. During the entire process of meeting, we will re-evaluate whether or not there is any progression towards the overall goal(s). Sometimes we change the goal(s), or (many times) we flush out the goals to help us stay focus during the entire process.

I never wanted to be a therapist. I wanted simply to be a social worker who helped people. I wanted to teach people how to live life better by using some simple psychological tools. After I started at the EAP, I wrote many health and wellness newsletters and did many seminars. From that, many people sought my services as a therapist. And I discovered how much I enjoyed being a therapist, particularly the teaching aspect! It was my clients whom I helped that convinced me that doing counseling was my true calling.

Therapy is merely a conversation between two people. When I do in-person sessions, I typically offer coffee, tea or lemonade so people can get comfy quickly. I tend to be pretty non-judgmental but will give my honest opinion when asked. Most people will say that I care and often go the extra mile for people. I really try to make therapy easy, fun and practical. We laugh during my sessions, just because life is pretty awesome despite the many pitfalls we all face. My overall goal as a therapist is to make it so you don't need me in your life, but I will be available when needed.

• Washington, Licensed Indépendant Clinical Social Worker, 60803256

I worked at an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) in rural IL. While there, we developed a hybrid EAP that included community mental health services. I specialized in helping people use vitamins, minerals and supplements rather than (or addition to) medications to help alleviate depression, anxiety and even schizophrenia. While there, I also did home health and hospice work. I eventually became a hospice chaplain where I enjoyed teaching people about the dying process. After that, I worked a few years in dialysis where I helped the chronically ill. Now I also work in a pilot project for L&I (WA's workman's comp program) where I help injured people cope with pain, the frustration of being injured and accepting their disability (if needed). Since I also suffer from PCS (Post Concussion Syndrome) and Crohn's, I specialize in helping people overcome the devastating effects of chronic illnesses, including coping with the sleeplessness, anxiety and mood swings.