Around 90% of my counseling career has been working with persons coping with trauma and substance use. As both of these concerns can occur with anyone, I have also worked with clients coping with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and other conditions.
In regard to treatment modalities, I primarily work from a person-centered and cognitive behavioral framework, though incorporate strategies from other models of counseling as appropriate for the person and their needs.
What this means for my clients is that care is provided in a setting free from judgement and with acceptance of the person at whatever stage of healing they may find themselves.
My sessions are generally based around a framework that has served me well in the past: risk assessment, as anyone can experience thoughts of harm; recap of recent concerns; review of last session; review of coping skills and strategies used; planning for next session and schedule new appointment. However, I also understand that crises occur at different points and work to adapt interactions as needed. Due to working from a person-centered framework, I operate from the idea that clients are in charge of their recovery and that my job is to help and guide them on their healing journey. Because of this, I like to provide information regarding diagnoses, offer coping strategies, work to modify behaviors, and provide resources that may be useful outside of counseling sessions.
I like being available to my clients for their needs, whether they be support, education, helping them face fears, and helping them overcome struggles. I also try to stay up-to-date regarding community resources such as food pantries and utility support so that clients have easier access in these areas. In addition, I like to work closely with other members of my client’s treatment team, such as case managers or prescribers, as my roll is only one part of a system that is designed to help clients to improve their lives. One thing that clients have consistently reported to me during my career is that changing counselors is challenging and can be a set-back in their healing process. Because of this, I am a firm believer in the importance of continuity of care; therefore, I remain present for clients and don’t jump from one counseling position to another. Consistency is definitely paramount in regard to my counseling and therapeutic relationships.
