Choosing the right therapist is very important. I realize that finding a person who is qualified to help you with your particular need and with whom you feel comfortable can be a daunting process. Let me help by introducing myself, giving you some information about my practice and telling you about my qualifications. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have worked in the mental health field for fifteen years. I have extensive experience treating adolescents and adults in individual, family and couples psychotherapy. I believe that people have the ability to cope with their own problems, especially with the help of their family, friends, church and community. However, difficult life circumstances can make it hard to tap into our inner wisdom and resources at times without assistance. In my practice, you will find a safe, comfortable, confidential place to come and share your concerns. I will listen, and we will work together to help you identify and create the changes that you most desire in order to bring a sense of balance and contentment to your life. Throughout this process, I will strive to understand your perspective, encourage you when you are feeling discouraged, challenge you to reach your goals as well as advocate for your needs.
Once we explore the nature of the problem, I'll offer you guidance regarding the recommended frequency of your sessions with me and the length of your treatment. We will make this decision together based upon your concerns, overall investment and goals.
I received my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology in 1988 from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, Tennessee. During and immediately after obtaining this degree, I worked as a mental health associate in a residential treatment center and later in an inpatient treatment center for adolescents. At that point, I decided to pursue an advanced degree in counseling. I moved from Tennessee to Boston, Massachusetts and obtained my Master of Social Work from Simmons College in 1992. While pursuing this degree, I did an internship on two geriatric floors at Massachusetts General Hospital as a medical social worker and later at Protestant Social Service Bureau conducting outpatient psychotherapy with children, adolescents and adults. I moved back to Knoxville, Tennessee in 1992 and have continued working for the past ten years as an outpatient psychotherapist, specializing in the treatment of adult and adolescent populations, at a local social service agency in Blount and Knox County. During this time, I have opened a private practice, managed the daily operations of an outpatient mental heath treatment center, and coordinated an employee assistance program that has helped to improve employee productivity, performance and well being for many local businesses.
I contract with several employee assistance programs to provide assessments, short-term counseling and referrals to employees and their family members through their benefit plan at work. I provide critical incident stress response services to organizations and individuals that have experienced a crisis in the workplace, such as death or injury of a coworker, robbery and threats of violence. I have extensive training and experience in conducting defusings and debriefings with employees following the Mitchell Model. I regularly conduct workshops on a variety of topics, including stress management, time management, managing change, blended families and coping with the illness of a loved one. You can reach me at (865) 749-5000. I would be happy to answer any of your questions or talk with you about scheduling an appointment. I look forward to hearing from you. It may be the best first step that you ever take.
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