About
I have over 30 years of experience as a counselor, coach, trainer, and educator, specializing in building healthy relationships, treating addictive behaviors and creating positive change for people who have struggled with depression, anxiety and trauma. I also have experience in the fields of human performance, stress management, building healthy workplaces and creating work-life balance. Also, I've authored the Marry YourSelf First book series.
When I work with a new client, I'm always excited to get to the root causes of the challenges and begin to show the client how they can overcome these old ways of thinking, feeling and acting. I use a solution-oriented approach, which means that we stay focused on the solution, instead of only talking about the problems. The end result is for the client is an experience of their best well-being and happiness.
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Reviews
Rick L.
Deborah
Susan V.
Diona B.
Brenda L.
Nic A.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
I typically have a 20-minute phone consultation to make sure I have the qualifications the prospective client is looking for. That also gives them time to ask me questions and we can both get a feel if it makes sense to schedule an appointment. The first appointment is getting more extensive background and history from the client, while also formulating an individualized treatment plan. I explain what we can accomplish in therapy, things to do above and beyond therapy (reading books, support groups, etc.), and the logistics of how often we'll be meeting and how many sessions we're looking at to achieve the treatment goals.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
EDUCATION/PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Master of Arts, Counselor Education, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL
Bachelor of Arts, Human Resources, Eckerd College, St. Petersburg, FL
Associate of Arts/Science - Human Services, St. Petersburg College, FL
Graduate, The Relationship Coaching Institute
Graduate, The Institute for Life Coach Training
LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS
Florida Board Licensed Mental Health Counselor
Florida Board Certified Addictions Professional
National Board Certified Master Addictions Counselor
National Board Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist
Certified Master Relationship Coach
PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
American Mental Health Counselors Association
Florida Mental Health Counselors Association
Suncoast Mental Health Counselors Association
National Association of Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors
Do you have a standard pricing system for your services? If so, please share the details here.
Currently it's based on what the services required are. In other words, it's not standardized, but rather, it's individualized.
How did you get started in this business?
in 1986 I felt a calling to the helping profession, so I enrolled in college and got a job at a local psychiatric hospital.
What types of customers have you worked with?
Many different types. Mostly average, everyday people, but also have worked with many CEOs, entrepreneurs, and small business managers.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I love getting up early in the morning and going to a local park and engage in walking and bird-watching.
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a pro in your area of expertise?
Thoroughly interview all prospective therapists. Ask about their background, how much experience they've had with cases like yours, as well as their credentials and degrees. Additionally, do a Google search and see if they have a website and any online reviews. Mostly, however, it's important to trust your gut.
What questions should customers think through before talking to pros about their needs?
As noted above: Thoroughly interview all prospective therapists. Ask about their background, how much experience they've had with cases like yours, as well as their credentials and degrees. Additionally, do a Google search and see if they have a website and any online reviews. Mostly, however, it's important to trust your gut.