About
Everyone at one time or another runs into issues and obstacles that can appear overwhelming. Often what is needed is a fresh set of ears from someone genuinely concerned, who has the training and experience to help you find a resolution. I assist individuals, couples, and families in developing the tools needed to enhance, improve and empower using empirically proven approaches and intervention techniques. My treatment experience has involved dual diagnosed and personality disorders in children and adults. I am particular proficient with relationships that are challenged by unresolved issues, or trauma experienced by one or more of the members.
As a retired Marine I have a passion for veterans. As a minister I have a passion for families and marriages. My aviation background also helps me understand the special pressures and challenges of that profession. I have been serving people one way or another my whole life.
There is nothing more rewarding to me then being a part of another person's victory. Knowing I had something to do with somone overcoming their obstacles is the most rewarding experice I have come to know. I do not believe man has any greater purpose then to have compassion and understanding for his fellow man. Everything else seems superficial in comparison.
Specialties
Previous therapy or counseling experience
Counseling type
Frequency
Counselor gender preference
Photos and videos
Reviews
Susan A.
Susan A.
Susan A.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
Clients often request a quick phone consultation to give the therapists a summary of their goals and to clarify financial arrangements. An intake is conducted on the first visit, a treatment plan follows and the first post-intake session is scheduled. Modalities used include Solution Focused Therapy, DBT, and MRI. A warm, accepting, non-judgemental environment is created and maintained so the client(s) are comfortable expressing their inner most feelings in a safe space.
Every 6 sessions a progress review is conducted by the client and the therapist to ensure the treatment plan is on track and no tweaks or new goals need to be added.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
MS in Marriage and Family Therapy, National certification in Dialectic Behavior Therapy (DBT) and several continued education courses in Trauma informed treatment.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your services? If so, please share the details here.
$120/hr cash
Current Insurance accepted: Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, United Healthcare, and Employment Assistance Programs (EAP).
Also provide sliding scale, access to financing programs, and payment options
How did you get started in this business?
I have a combined counseling experience of over 20 years. I have been in a counseling capacity of some fashion since 2000. First as a youth mentor, then ministry and now secular counseling. My greatest motivation and application teaching came from my son who suffered from schizophrenia from age 19 - 39 when he passed from internal systems failures and organ shut down due to medication complications.
What types of customers have you worked with?
my clients range from ages 5 to 70 with areas of concern that include anxiety and depression to trauma informed issues.
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a pro in your area of expertise?
Regardless of the level of expertise and skill, joining with the client is the most important predictor towards successful therapy, so it is important that the client find a therapist they feel comfortable talking and sharing with.
What questions should customers think through before talking to pros about their needs?
Therapist expertise, education, and background.
The client should ask questions to identify compatibility.
Scheduling and fees.
Also ask about referral resources for areas outside of the therapist’s scope of expertise, such as case management, Med-management, and other health services as appropriate