Everyone needs a safe place they can trust to be open, vulnerable and know that what they share is held in strict confidence or confidentiality. Though I encourage open communication in all relationships sometimes people need the freedom to talk openly without fear of what others will think or say.

Counseling to me is like sitting in a living room with the freedom to be yourself and say whatever you need to say however you need to say it. There is a non-judgmental, non-critical atmosphere that you can experience acceptance and unconditional care with balanced insight, feedback and practical techniques for changing your life. The counseling relationship is focused on the client's concerns and is emotionally intimate, though ethical and professional at all times.

As the client you are in complete control to refuse or choose to talk on painful issues or to follow through with treatment recommendations. I will guide you, helping you to progress not too slowly, but not too fast. As the client you have the freedom to speak up and request how counseling will help you more effectively. If there is any conflict in counseling you are encouraged to discuss it openly with me and practice healthy communication and conflict resolution skills.

Counseling requires much effort, and sometimes pain and struggle, to make lasting life changes. There is risk and sometimes things get worse before they get better. Though there may be some upsetting thoughts, major changes in life perspective, and painful realities, counseling marks a season of growth, progress, and healing in a person’s life.

My style of counseling is to provide you and your family with a long-term professional counselor relationship in which you can have continuity throughout the life span. You may attend counseling at strategic times in your life when you feel stuck or need professional help and guidance. You don’t have to repeat your life history over and over, because having me as your professional counselor is like having your family doctor who knows your history. Counseling for some is getting specific skills in just a few sessions, and for others counseling may require more extended time to make lasting changes. There is no magic dust that I sprinkle. True change happens when you take responsibility to practice and take action on the techniques you learn in the counseling relationship. By making an investment in yourself you can make tremendous life changes in counseling!