My Approach to Counseling

 What to expect in the beginning?

Typically, the first session is referred to as an intake session. Completing paperwork, reviewing confidentiality, and informed consent are some of the items worked on in the first session. We also complete a Bio-psych-social assessment to help gain a clearer picture of an individual’s life experience.

The second session often looks at creating a treatment plan. A treatment plan accomplishes several things. It allows the client and counselor to collaborate and discover goals with objectives that will guide their time together. A treatment plan also gives structure to treatment, providing a map to reveal if treatment is heading in the right direction and accomplishing its intended purpose.

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 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) and Exposure response prevention (ERP is very helpful with anxiety/OCD), mindfulness techniques that aid the client with stress management, attachment styles, IFS (Internal Family Systems), EMDR and others.

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 the client to experience life changing growth.