Great to meet you!
It can be difficult and challenging for people to deal with various life struggles. Often people need tools to deal with challenges or may not have a support system to assist with challenges. I have years of experience assisting others of all ages from numerous situations and life experiences, with respect and understanding in a non-judgmental manner. I graduated from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology. I spent several years working with children, adolescents, and families in residential treatment settings. I then completed my Master's degree at Amberton University in Garland, Texas. I was originally licensed in Texas as a Licensed Professional Counselor until relocating to Missouri over 20 years ago, and have been licensed in Missouri since that time. During these years I continued to work primarily with children/adolescents and families in residential treatment helping them transition back home. I have also been employed in outpatient counseling settings assisting all ages. In addition, I worked in an adult correctional setting with substance use disorder clients. I have been active as an advocate in the LGBTQ community, and have worked in emergency shelters with homeless youth and adults. I was an elevated needs foster parent for nearly 5 years and adopted one teenager. I strongly believe in empowering my clients and challenging them to look at all options for difficulties they are currently experiencing. I believe a positive honest client-therapist relationship is necessary for positive change to occur.