Hello, and thank you for taking the time to allow me to introduce myself. I would be greatly honored to assist you with your personal counseling needs.
Post licensure, I have continued my education and supervision in betrayal trauma, sexual addiction, and relationships.Ā I am certified by IITAP* as a Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist (CSAT).Ā This extensive training allows me access to excellent continuing education and some helpful tools for my clients in the form of formal assessments and recovery materials to aid in trauma recovery for both the betrayer and the betrayed.Ā Additionally, I am a Certified Clinical Partner Specialist through APSATS* to provide trauma recovery services to the partners of those who struggle with sexual addiction. Further, I have completed the certified sexual addiction and betrayal trauma courses and supervision offered through Addo Recovery.
I earned my Master of Arts degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. Gaining experience toward LPC licensure, I worked in an inpatient mental health hospital and an outpatient practice setting. Within those placements, I gained experience with children, adolescents, adults, families, individuals, and couples covering various issues and problems. Since licensure, I have assisted clients in a private practice setting.
I entered the counseling profession after many years in the business world. My earlier resume included corporate accounting, real estate sales, therapeutic services to children and adults with various challenges, and other business endeavors. As a result of a broad spectrum of professional experiences, I have accumulated a wealth of relationships with many types of people of all ages. I have enjoyed teaching, speaking, and facilitating groups in various settings, as well as mentoring others in their efforts. The culmination of all my past endeavors helped to prepare me for my entrance into the counseling and coaching fields.
Clinically, my work utilizes a cognitive behavioral approach, which has an underlying theory that a personās beliefs affect feelings and behaviors. Many times, such beliefs were instilled in childhood or through experiences and may not even be something that the person is consciously aware of daily. These beliefs may be true, contain an element of truth, or be false. Once identified and appropriately adjusted, a person has the ability to make changes that can be sustained over time which results in more positive feelings and behaviors. In addition to this theory base, I utilize the tools of several theories to customize services to meet the needs of my clients best. I apply Christian counseling principles and utilize biblical truths to those clients who request them. Most importantly, I genuinely care for each person I have a therapeutic relationship with and recognize that it is a privilege to assist each one in a trustworthy and safe manner.
On a more personal note, I am the mother of 3 grown daughters, and āMimiā to 6 young grandchildren. I enjoy being outdoors, gardening, cruising on a 4-wheeler, camping, hiking, and laughing with family and friends. I embrace a Christian worldview; always seeking new growth in my relationship with God. I love to learn and look for lessons in all situations. I feel humbled and fortunate to work in a way that brings help to others.
I sincerely look forward to meeting you and walking awhile with you through your lifeās journey.
*International Institute of Trauma and Addiction Professionals ( IITAP)
*The Association of Partners of Sex Addicts Trauma Specialists (APSATS)