What is your approach to counseling?

IMy counseling perspective is influenced by Christian principals while at the same time respecting each person’s individual value system. My theoretical orientation consists primarily of two main approaches: 1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) which focus on the premise that your thoughts lead to your feelings and your feelings lead to your behavior. In CBT we examine your thoughts and self-talk and how it effects your behavior and actions. We work on cognitive distortions and how to look at these thoughts in a more realistic way to bring about the changes you desire. 2. Dialectical Behavioral Therapy focus on emotional regulation using a variety of coping skills. I also use the Emotional Freedom (EFT) technique which is often referred to as tapping. EFT is an evidence supported energy psychology approach that rapidly releases the emotional impact of stressful or traumatic life events from the mind-body system.

In which techniques have you been trained?

I have been trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Emotional Freedom Technique, Hypnosis, and have had numerous trainings in using these techniques to address the areas of stress, depression, worry, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.

What is the difference between Counseling and Coaching?

Counseling primarily involves interventions at the personal, spiritual, and relational levels. Counseling clients receive a diagnosis in order for insurance to cover the sessions. Counseling interventions may address issues such as grief, mood disorders or anxiety, improve communication, or reduce stress. Counseling may focus on the past and resolution of past experiences and conflicts. Coaching bridges the gap between where you are now and where you want to be. It focuses on the future and develops a plan to reach goals. Coaching is designed to help you reach your full potential. There is no diagnosis for coaching clients therefore coaching is not covered by insurance.

What is your approach for Life Coaching clients?

I often administer the Strong Interest Inventory to help guide clients toward a career that suits their personality. In coaching we form a relationship which will enable you to move forward by clarifying and accomplishing personal, spiritual, relational, and career/professional goals. Having a coach can often help you achieve outcomes more rapidly than you would accomplish on your own. We will work together on planning and forming action strategies that will help you discover and shape your vision for what is most important to you. We will also address what is preventing you from accomplishing your goals. Together we will formulate goals that will help you move toward your vision. You will receive encouragement and accountability, along with tailored strategies and  steps, all with the accomplishment of your goals in mind.  

What are the differences between a psychiatrist, a psychologist, and a counselor/therapist?

Psychiatrists are M.D.s who specialize in administering and monitoring psychiatric medications. Very few psychiatrists include therapy in their care of patients, however they recommend that their patients also receive therapy in conjunction with the medication. Psychologists have a Ph.D. or a Psy. D. and  are licensed by the state. They are  qualified to administer and interpret psychological, neuropsychological or psycho educational testing. Some psychologists only administer and interpret tests, however, Psychologists are also trained in therapy techniques. and some only provide therapy. Some Psychologists specialize in Forensics (or court cases) Psychologists are unable to prescribe medication.  A Licensed Professional Counselor has a masters degree in one of several areas related to counseling and must be licensed by the state. Their emphasis is on counseling or therapy. Counselors are unable to administer psychological testing to their clients nor can they prescribe medication. Counselors may administer some inventories which are helpful to the counseling process such as depression, anxiety, or career inventories.