My Approach to Counseling

 What to Expect In the Beginning

Typically, the first session is referred to as an intake session, where I complete a holistic assessment to help gain a clearer picture of each person’s life experience. Completing paperwork, reviewing confidentiality, and informed consent are also some of the items worked on in the first couple of sessions.

After intake, I collaborate with the client to create a treatment plan. A treatment plan accomplishes several things:

• Allows the client and counselor to work together to identifying goals.

• Sets objectives that will guide each therapy session.

• Gives structure to treatment.

• Provides a map to reveal if treatment is heading in the right direction.

Treatment plans are how we’ll know if therapy is accomplishing its intended purpose for you, without having to guess or leave it up to chance.

Treatment Approach

There are many different treatment & counseling modalities. Often a therapist will explore various modalities and use several that promote success in their clients’ lives.

My approach is eclectic, which means using various modalities while insuring they work in a unified system. I start with a client-centered attitude. I see this as a client led approach that allows their values, beliefs, and goals to direct the session. Exploring one's values and beliefs is important for this to be successful. Our values and beliefs can change throughout life, but exploring their origins creates self awareness and understanding of how we currently view the world and relate to others.

Some other modalities that align with this approach are CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), EMDR (eye movement desensitization reprocessing), IFS (Internal Family Systems), and ERP (Exposure Response Prevention). This approach, along with mindfulness techniques, can be very helpful with anxiety/OCD, stress management, attachment styles, and others types of trauma.

Although the clients’ values and belief system are important, that doesn't mean the counselor is void of their own values and beliefs. As a professional counselor, I never impose my values and beliefs on any client, but they do guide my approach to counseling. My faith in God is the primary source that guides my belief system. Every modality I use in treatment is filtered through the lens of my faith in God. I believe that this filter provides the greatest environment for each client to experience life-changing growth.