I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with nearly 30 years of experience. I am located in Florida where I began my career in counseling in 1994 as a residential therapist in a psychiatric hospital, followed by the roles of an outpatient therapist, clinical supervisor and program director at a substance abuse treatment agency. In 2001, I relocated to Ohio, where I worked for the next 13 years as a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor - Supervisor, program manager and program administrator for a mental and behavioral health nonprofit organization. In 2014, I relocated back to Florida where I began my online practice. If you have any reservations about online counseling, I encourage you to give it a try. It is a highly effective and convenient therapeutic modality that can be accessed from the the comfort and safety of your own home or wherever you are at any given time. I can attest to this with utmost confidence based on my clients' positive feedback after providing services here for over 8 years. My clinical philosophy is one of a humanistic nature, with emphasis on the therapeutic relationship as the most essential building block of the counseling process. My therapeutic style is warm, interactive, attentive and compassionate. I believe that genuineness, unconditional positive regard and empathy are critical to the helping process. As needed, I am also direct and structured in my approach and tend to assign therapeutic homework or tasks to enhance the progression and continuity of the process in between live sessions or message exchanges. I have the ability to tailor and pace treatment to your individual and unique needs, and I am sensitive to evolving the process at your pace and convenience while still promoting and prompting advancement toward your goals. Furthermore, I take a holistic approach to health and wellness, with emphasis on achieving balance in major life domains. I believe that when needs, desires or aspirations are unfulfilled in one significant realm, the others are affected as well and this creates imbalance in one's life, leading to stress, anxiety, inconsistency, overwhelmed feelings, lack of self-care, somatic symptoms, etc. Lastly, in terms of professional characteristics and standards of care, I operate with the highest degree. I was esteemed throughout my career for my level of professionalism, ethical conduct, organization, efficiency and grace. My educational background includes: a bachelor's degree in psychology from University of Miami, FL; a master's degree in mental health counseling from Nova Southeastern University of Fort Lauderdale, FL; and additional post-graduate coursework in career counseling, and the diagnosis, evaluation and treatment of mental disorders at University of Dayton in Bexley, OH. I enjoy the ongoing pursuit of continued education, training and professional development through seminars in specialized areas, reading and self-study. I highly value knowledge, information and effective application of therapeutic theories, models, strategies, and techniques that may benefit the people I serve. My clinical experience includes working with various diverse populations and treatment modalities, and the full spectrum of issues and disorders ranging from the most simple to the most complex co-occurring conditions. I specialize in treating depression/anxiety/stress, substance abuse/addiction, emotional/physical/sexual abuse, trauma and grief/loss. I also have extensive experience with counseling issues in the following areas: LGBT, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Intimacy-related issues, Parenting issues, Anger management, Self esteem, Career difficulties, Compassion fatigue & Addictions in general. Depression, anxiety and stress are some of the most common challenges faced by people who seek counseling. In this realm, I have worked with children, adolescents and adults in residential/hospital, outpatient and community-based settings. I have provided individual, group and family services, and have facilitated psycho-educational counseling groups and workshops on coping skills, stress management/reduction, emotion regulation, self-esteem and assertive communication skills. My approach though eclectic, tends to be rooted in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which per evidence-based research, is very effective in treating these issues. This active intervention is problem-focused and goal-directed in examining the relationships between thoughts, feelings and behaviors; and modifying unhelpful or negative patterns of thinking that lead to self-defeating beliefs and actions, to improve coping and overall wellness. I also take a mindfulness-based approach to CBT (MBCBT) by encouraging the use of mindfulness practice and self-compassion. These tools help to address and validate one's personal experience with distress, pain and suffering; and diminish associated negative symptoms by focusing attention on the present moment. Learning how to self-soothe and regulate emotions through effective relaxation, calming and grounding strategies are significant components of my clinical approach to addressing depression, anxiety and stress. For over two decades, I have treated teens and adults who struggle with substance abuse and dependency issues. In 1998, I was humbly honored to receive Florida Alcohol & Drug Abuse Association's Professional of the Year award. I have provided these services in various settings and levels of care from the least to the most restrictive. As an outpatient alcohol and drug counselor, I worked with self-referred individuals as well as those who had been mandated to receive evaluation and/or treatment as a condition of probation, parole, work, school or a family/community member. I provided these services in individual, group and family forums. As a clinical supervisor and administrator, I had the opportunity to develop and oversee programming and staff in the specialized area of addictions. In a training capacity, I facilitated seminars to educate clinical staff in the areas of assessing, diagnosing and treating alcohol and drug problems. I am very passionate about working with people who struggle with addictions in general, one day at a time, toward a healthy recovery and lifestyle. Maintaining a strong emphasis on healthy coping skills, positive support systems and relapse prevention planning are key to my treatment approach in this area. In the delicate area of treating the effects of abuse and trauma, I have worked with child and adult survivors of emotional/physical/sexual abuse and violence. I have extensive experience working with acute and post traumatic stress disorder and have developed and facilitated group curricula that focus on reducing isolation, guilt/shame and self-blame; building self-esteem, positive support systems and coping skills; and increasing a sense of mastery and personal empowerment. I am also well versed at teaching survivors how to implement effective relaxation, grounding and anchoring techniques to help diminish anxiety and maintain a balanced state of arousal and focus in the present moment. Encouraging self-forgiveness is also very important to me in helping survivors let go of illegitimate shame or guilt derived from any unwanted responses to, or effects from the abuse. Throughout the healing journey, I am sensitive to guiding the process at a pace that feels most comfortable and safe to each person, and promoting respite from focusing on difficult material if/when it becomes too emotionally burdensome. To help prevent any inadvertent re-traumatization from occurring during the counseling process, I am especially conscientious and attentive to providing trauma-informed care. Throughout my career, I have helped children, teens and families work through grief/loss challenges. In my professional opinion, there is no one particular formula for grieving. Though there are common elements or phases of grief, everyone grieves differently. It is a very personal experience and individual response to coping with significant loss of any kind - death, separation/divorce, relocation, retirement, job loss/change, etc. Grief occurs in stages, which may come like waves in the ocean, ascending and receding at any given time and in no particular order. I am skilled at helping people understand this phenomenon and learn how to navigate these treacherous waters. I have expertise in providing compassionate support and effective strategies to aid individuals through this vulnerable and difficult time toward a place of healing and acceptance. Working with LGBTQIA+ counseling issues is a point of passion for me. I respect, admire, embrace and promote diversity, individuality and authenticity in my personal and professional life. I am LGBTQIA+ informed/educated and have experience with bullying, coming out, internalized homophobia, gender identity affirmation and transgender support. Mental health problems are difficult enough in their own respect, let alone compounded by LGBTQ issues. I have worked with a broad spectrum of concerns in this realm ranging from depression, anxiety, shame, guilt, secrecy and confusion associated with sexual orientation/attraction and gender identity to homo/bi/transphobia and HOCD (homophobic obsessive compulsive disorder). Furthermore, LGBTQIA+ couples and families have unique issues when it comes to navigating the legal, emotional and financial aspects of raising and/or restructuring a non-traditional family. On behalf of this community, I firmly believe that more support, education and advocacy are greatly needed. With all the significant strides that have been made toward raised awareness and acceptance in our society, there is so much more that we can do to achieve full empowerment and equality for all. I want to be a part of this valuable movement and growth journey by helping one individual at a time. I genuinely admire your initiative and courage to reach out for support, and look forward to working together toward your goals. With patience and commitment and dedication to this process, this is the first step toward a happier and healthier or more evolved you.

I lived in Michigan for 44 years until my relocating a year ago to Ohio for lots of major life changes! Making such a dramatic change to my life has been so rewarding. What we can accomplish when we step outside of our comfort zone! I received my Master of Social Work degree from Michigan State University in 2004, where I graduated with honors. I am currently a licensed social worker in Michigan and I also have my LISW certification in Ohio. I worked in the field of child welfare for 19 years as a worker and then a supervisor so child abuse and the resulting trauma are among my specialties. I am currently a supervisor in an agency where we ensure that those living with HIV get access to all things needed to thrive. I practiced individual counseling in Michigan for over five years. I have worked with people with a wide range of concerns including depression, relationship issues (including domestic violence), self-esteem, LBGTQ, anxiety/stress/panic attacks, OCD, ADD, and others. I live my life, both personally and professionally, as I treat all people with dignity, sensitivity, compassion, and respect. I do not judge anyone, regardless of their life situation. My counseling style is warm and interactive, focusing on mindfulness. My approach involves cognitive theory (one's thinking directly effects one's decision-making); humanistic (growth and self-actualization); and holistic (visualization, meditation, guided imagery). We will develop goals and a treatment plan together and our conversations will be tailored to what you need from me and what works best for you. It takes courage to seek out ways to live a fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am proud of you for taking those first steps and I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

I believe your story is important. The pain, the victories, the traumas, and the triumphs - all of those elements come together in a way that can either devastate us, hold us back, or motivate us to move forward. I want to cheer you on as you move farther forward than you imagined was possible. I have a compassionate, empathetic, and kind heart. Because we talk about some hard things, my unique sense of humor is a purposeful tool used to disarm and relax you as we find the best strategies to help move you towards your goals. I believe that all clients who want to get better can get better. As your provider, I will extend hope - even if you may currently not be able to. My positive attitude, combined with a realistic perspective and honest feedback, can help you improve your life. Please note: I only provide asynchronous therapy on BetterHelp through messaging. We have relationships with other people, of course, but we also are in relationships with places and things and concepts - and with ourselves. We need to fully understand those relationships and how they impact our wellness and happiness. I want to hear your stories. I want to understand your point of view. And I want to help you better understand all of your relationships. When it comes to my style, my approach is heavily influenced by the work of Jean Baker Miller and Relational-Cultural Theory, but I also utilize a variety of tools from other theories like Cognitive-Behavioral, Reality Therapy, Adlerian, and Gestalt. Because I have an eclectic toolbox, I’m able to choose tools, interventions, and approaches that will work for just about anyone’s personality. I love to look at the root causes for your problems and can discuss these issues in both philosophical ways and practical ones, too. I'll work hard to provide you with what you need - but if at any time you don't think we're a good fit, you can change providers at any time. I'll also be honest with you if I think you'd do better working with someone else. I respond to messages within 24 hours (Mon-Thurs) and often much sooner. Also, I regularly send check-in messages, some encouraging words, housekeeping items, and writing prompts to make sure we're connecting and engaging together. I look forward to working with you!

I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio. I specialize in the treatment of family communication needs, trauma, anxiety, self-esteem difficulties, midlife challenges, and self-care. I have been in the field since 2004 in multiple capacities, and have been active in my current role since 2014. I have practiced in community mental health, school, and private practice settings, and have served in case management, supervising, therapist, and program coordinator roles. My counseling style is warm, non-threatening, and calming, and I prioritize the unique needs of each client. My preferred counseling methods include: Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, Structural Family Therapy, Emotionally-Focused Therapy, and the Incredible Years Program. I am also trained in Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Motivational Interviewing. Additionally, I am a National Youth Mental Health First Aid Instructor, and an Incredible Years Parent Program Facilitator. It is my joy to facilitate progress and self-actualization in my clients, and I still get excited for each client as that progress happens! I invite you to take this initial step on your journey by reaching out. I look forward to working with you!

No longer taking new clients.

I am a family and individual counselor licensed in the state of Ohio and have been providing clinical service for 10 years and supervision for 7 years. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including but not limited to depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, family of origin issues, parenting concerns, boundary and communication issues as well as with those who have experience complex trauma. My therapeutic style is warm, nurturing and I focus on identifying and utilizing your strengths to help address the areas you desire to work on. I believe strongly in honoring your voice as a client and empowering you in your treatment process. In individual counseling my approach combines cognitive-behavioral and motivational interviewing with a trauma informed lens. Identifying areas of growth and taking the step towards change and healing is a brave decision, I am here to support and empower you in the process. I look forward to join together on your healing journey.

I am licensed in Ohio with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

I am licensed in Ohio with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

I am a nationally licensed Clinical Social Worker, but practice on the Board of Behavioral Science for California (LCSW) & Ohio (LISW) with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & coping with grief and loss. My therapeutic orientation/expertise lies within the modalities of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic, and Systemic Therapy. I enjoy working with the family, as well as with the individual client to provide a holistic approach to care. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

I am licensed in Ohio with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, depression, & coping with life changes. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

I am licensed in Ohio with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

I am licensed in Ohio and Florida with almost 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, parenting issues, & depression. I also have worked extensively with teens as well as with men and masculine journey issues. As a Christian therapist, I have many years of experience and training in helping clients with matters of faith. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy shows great courage and I am proud of you for getting started! I'm eager to come alongside of you on your journey.

I am licensed in Ohio with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & career difficulties. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

I am a licensed therapist in Ohio with over 20 years of combined professional work experience as a therapist, life coach, and certified mentor. My specialty is in empowering and totally transforming lives at a core level, as inner barriers are forever released. I am passionate about empowering clients to create the unique life they desire. I provide sessions full of empathy, hope, and doable next steps in order to create this NEW amazing life. I specialize in helping clients with relationship issues, intimacy-related issues, parenting issues, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, releasing inner emotional blocks, marriage, mothering, and life mission. My decades of life experience include those of being with my husband for nearly 20 years, being a smiling homeschooler of our four children, and living on a rural homestead with beloved chickens, rottweilers, butterflies, and bullfrogs. I am passionate about empowering clients to live their Divine Destiny with Wild Joy. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths, and even superpowers, that will assist you in overcoming the things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage. I am proud of you for getting started. I can't wait to begin working together. Together, and week-by-week, you will learn new, essential skills that will allow you to powerfully create the life of your Wildest Dreams!

I am licensed in Ohio with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!