My Approach
I combine both skills-based and process-based therapeutic models in order to fully address the unique needs of clients. Through the use of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), I focus on the identification of thought patterns and core beliefs that are promoting unhelpful behaviors and emotions. In addition, I utilize dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) techniques to help clients work toward cultivating mindfulness skills, creating more positive interpersonal relationships, regulating emotional reactivity, and tolerating distressing events. In terms of process-based approaches, I enjoy helping clients explore how attachment styles and emotional patterns are linked to connectedness to life events and in social relationships. I use Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT), which focuses on the exploration of deeper emotions and attachment styles, thus creating more connectedness and understanding with oneself, others, and the environment. I believe that events from the past and present can both be relevant in therapy and that exploring the emotions attached to these events can be particularly helpful in promoting therapeutic and self-growth. In addition, I have training in cognitive processing therapy (CPT), which is one of the leading evidence-based therapies for trauma and PTSD. I enjoy integrating principles of CPT into my work with clients to heal past trauma and PTSD for long-term relief. I also believe in the importance of flexibility when it comes to trauma work and am always focused on creating an environment that best serves the needs of clients.
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Treatment Specialties
- Anxiety
- Bipolar Disorder
- Depression
- First Responders
- Gender Dysphoria
- Grief & Loss Counseling
- Life Transitions
- Maternal Mental Health
- Men's Issues
- Parent/Care Giver Coaching
- Process / Behavioral Dependence
- PTSD & Trauma Disorders
- Relationship Counseling
- Self-Discipline & Behavior Management
- Sexuality Related Concerns
- Social Anxiety
- Stress Reduction & Management
- Time & Task Management
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Services Provided
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Education
Ph.D. and M.A. in Counseling Psychology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville
M.S. Clinical-Counseling Psychology, Radford University
B.S. in Psychology and Justice Studies with Concentration in Criminal Justice, James Madison University -
Experience
I received my B.A. in Psychology and Justice Studies from James Madison University in Virginia. I earned an M.S. in Clinical-Counseling Psychology at Radford University in Virginia and then an M.A. and Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. I was selected for a predoctoral internship at West Virginia University’s Carruth Center and then completed my postdoctoral training at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte with a specialization in supervision and training.
I have worked extensively in university counseling centers through my career, where I was trained to work as a generalist with a young adult population. In addition, I worked as a therapist at a center specializing in treating survivors of domestic violence, child abuse, elder abuse, sexual assault, and human trafficking. I have also had experience working in crisis stabilization units in a hospital environment. In addition to counseling work, I am passionate about training new mental health care workers and enjoy providing supervision.
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Insurances
Blue Cross Blue Shield (excluding HMO plans)
Aetna (excluding Duke Select plans)