I am a retired school teacher and school counselor. I have over 40 years experience in that field and have been an LPC for 7 years and an LPC-S for 2 years. I have a BS in Elementary Education with a minor in Psychology and a Masters Degree in Students Services and School Counseling with a minor in Marriage and Family Therapy.
My Counseling Philosophy
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I approach my work from a Wellness Model rather than a Medical Model. I believe every client possesses strengths, resources, and capacities that can help them improve their circumstances, solve problems, and create a more fulfilling life.
My role is not to “fix” clients, but to walk alongside them as they discover and draw upon what is already within them. I help clients identify their strengths, recognize patterns in their behaviors and decision-making, develop realistic plans for change, and gain a deeper understanding of themselves.
I believe there is tremendous power in understanding why we think, feel, behave, and respond as we do. Greater self-awareness allows us to move from simply reacting to life toward making more intentional choices. Understanding ourselves can also create space for compassion and forgiveness—for ourselves and for others.
Counseling is meaningful work and is not always comfortable. Growth requires honesty, willingness, and active participation. My hope is to provide a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where clients can do that work and discover not only how to navigate their circumstances, but who they are, why they are, and who they want to become.
First sessions usually involve getting to know the client, and what brought them to counseling. Learning about their hopes and goals of what they’d like to achieve from our therapeutic relationship. Answering any questions they may have regarding the process and making sure client believes we are a good fit.
