My Approach to Counseling
I work mainly from a mindfully humanistic, existential and relational neuroscience viewpoint of counseling, where the client is the expert. I believe our past is important and provides a blueprint for the present. However, I also believe that we grow by allowing ourselves to be fully present in the “here and now.” As a counselor, it is my aim to promote a growth fostering relationship through my authentic, genuine, and empathic approach sprinkled with humor and the occasional curse word.
We are each on our own path in this life. Sometimes we encounter bumps in the road where we may feel detached or lost. This sets us on a quest for finding out what is important in our lives, what holds meaning for us, what gives us passion, or a will to continue.
You are the expert on your life. While I may have the knowledge and skills related to mental health, I cannot put you into the same box as everyone else who experiences a similar concern. We will develop a collaborative relationship to create an individualized approach to your life, experiences, and feelings. My overall goal is to guide and support you on your journey to a healthier you. The mind, body, and spirit balance is the foundation of my counseling approach.
I love working with young adults and adults dealing with trauma, life transitions, existential angst, as well as neurodiverse folx, those affected by cancer (I’m a Flatwater Foundation provider), and psychedelic integration.
You need to feel supported in this journey of healing and growth, while developing an overall sense of purpose and happiness. I want to help encourage and support you through any setbacks and/or pain that you may be going through and help you reconnect to who you want to be. Let’s find out what is right for you.
APPROACHES BEYOND TRADITIONAL TALK THERAPY
*Different approaches to wellbeing (somatic, experiential, mindfulness, Buddhist psychology, yoga, meditation, breathing, shamanic)
*Psychedelic integration (processing and integrating any experiences you have had on your own time)
*Bibliotherapy (integration of recommended readings)
My Time on the Couch
Many years ago I realized it was time for me to confront my relationship with guilt and to spend some time processing my mother’s death. During my time on the couch in therapy I learned invaluable lessons that I continue to carry with me in my personal and professional life. I learned the importance of honesty with my therapist. I trusted the process and the safe space my therapist created for me. I spent time exploring myself, working towards an understanding of the already planted roots in my soul, accepting who I am and learning the power of vulnerability. My time on the couch left me with a new found perspective on how I treat myself and others. Ultimately, I routinely remind myself of the importance remaining grounded and true to myself….no matter the storm.
Education and Training
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
Texas State University: MA Professional Counseling 2014
University of Texas-Dallas: BA Psychology 2010
- Interpersonal Neurobiology (IPNB) and Mindsight certification
- The Institute for Meditation and Psychotherapy certification
- Level 1 Sensorimotor Psychotherapy therapist
- Trauma Informed Yoga Therapy certification
- Level 1 AEDP (Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy) therapist
- KAP (Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy) certification from Roots Behavioral Health
- Minding the Body: Trauma Informed Yoga certification
- Yoga for Cancer (Y4C) certification
- Registered Yoga Teacher 200 hours with Yoga Alliance