One of the best pieces of advice I have ever received was, “Be you in therapy, otherwise, clients will see right through the act.”
So, genuineness combined with compassion is what you can expect (and a little dark humor). Clients who work best with me are those who come prepared to work on issues that are holding them back and allow me to be very active in session. Sitting passively listening to venting is not always helpful to the client nor does it utilize my expertise. Instead, I will ask thought provoking questions to explore where these problems originate from, offer perspectives about why the problems persist, and teach the client skills they can utilize to minimize these continual issues.
Experience
I received my Bachelor of Science in Experimental Psychology at University of South Carolina Upstate. Because of the invaluable experience I gained from my professors, I currently teach there in addition to my therapy practice, to mentor students as I once was. I earned my Master of Science in Applied Clinical Psychology at University of South Carolina Aiken. The program is considered "Applied" because it required us not only to learn about evidenced-based therapy methods but also to utilize them during the internships we completed.
After graduation, I returned to Greenville and began working for a state agency where I had the opportunity to increase my skills with hundreds of clients with varying disorders and backgrounds. I also began the Licensed Professional Counselor journey during this time and began thinking of a career outside of the agency- which is why you are on my website now! I began my private practice journey in 2017, and consider it to be one of the best decisions I have ever made.
Approach
Every client is different, so I utilize a variety of different approaches to meet my client where they are. My most pulled from therapy approaches are rooted in Cognitive Behavioral, Adlerian, Positive, Person-Centered, as well as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
