Creating Self-Esteem & Building Resiliency: Courage, Wisdom, Heart, Hope, Possibility, Boundaries, Problem Solving
Welcome to my psychotherapy practice,
I am a licensed clinical social worker who utilizes the Satir Growth Model in facilitating psychotherapy sessions. This experiential model assumes that people are motivated towards growth, connection and esteem. The core of psychotherapy for me is summarized by Virginia Satir’s words “feelings of worth can flourish only in an atmosphere where individual differences are appreciated, mistakes are tolerated, communication is open and rules are flexible.” Beginning therapy often feels vulnerable. I will work with you to develop safety, trust and connection. Some tools I use include family maps and self-esteem resource cards. In addition, we may create pictures to externalize feelings, thoughts, behaviors and yearnings.
I’ve worked in private practice for 14 years, focusing on children, adolescents and young adults. I’m certified in Equine Assisted Psychotherapy and have integrated the Satir Model into the arena with horses and clients. I’ve written a self-esteem curriculum based upon the Satir Model, “I Actually Make My Own Experience.” This is available to individuals, families and groups.
Areas of expertise:
◦ Bullying
◦ Divorce
◦ Identity
◦ Adoption
◦ Grief and loss
◦ Emotional Regulation
◦ Depression
◦ Anxiety
◦ Attachment Disorders
During the first session with children and adolescents, I consult with the parents or guardians for 10 - 20 minutes. The rest of the session, is spent with the client to explore the self-esteem resources. Typically, we begin with the Wishing Wand to explore hopes related to self, others and context(s).
In therapy with me, parents/guardians are asked to join check-in sessions as needed. This provides the client an opportunity to voice thoughts, feelings and progress. This often provides a safe space to discuss how the parents can support their child. Sessions last for 50 minutes, but can be scheduled for 90 minutes upon request. When appropriate, I collaborate with teachers, guidance counselors and other professionals such as pediatricians or psychiatrists. You can contact me by phone at (919) 632-3088.
My experience:
Since graduating from the University of South Florida with a Masters of Social Work in 1999, I’ve completed extensive training in the Satir Growth Model at the Year Long Practitioner Development Workshop in Chapel Hill. I’ve worked in a variety of settings with children and families including hospice and community mental health. My cross-cultural work with teaching the Satir Growth Model has taken me to Hong Kong, China, Germany, Tajikistan and Azerbaijan.
Certified Equine Assisted Psychotherapist, EAGALA
Certified Trainer in Enriching Your Relationship with Self and Others
Satir Growth Model Practitioner
Satir Global Network, Member
Satir Institute of the Southeast, Member
NC and National Association of Social Workers, Member
Institute for International Connections, Member
"I can see, hear, think, say and do. I have the tools to survive, to be close to others, to be productive, to make sense of the world, of people and things outside of me." --Virginia Satir, 1975
