I live in Texas and possess an unobstructed Texas professional counseling (LPC) license. I obtained a Master’s degree in Counseling and an undergraduate degree in psychology. I have worked for a mental health facility for six years and obtained experience in crisis, psycho-social rehabilitation, received training and experience in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and received a certification of training in Cognitive Processing Therapy for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). I have worked with people of various ages and development. I have extensive use of the DSM IV and V. I have experience in working with those who have or have had substance abuse problems, and I have worked in two residential, judicial dual diagnosis centers. Dual diagnosis means these individuals not only have a substance abuse problem, but they have a diagnosable mental illness. There is continuous research and study, and I continue to search for arenas to expand and update my experience and knowledge in counseling techniques and in mental health. I have an extreme passion to see improvement, empowerment, support and progress not only in my clients but also in myself. I cannot help my client if I do not have those qualities myself. I am a believer in Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit and do not fear using Biblical principles in my counseling practice when requested. My main clinical approach is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), but I also adopt other techniques from other approaches such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Gestalt, Person-Centered (Rogerian), and Integrative/Holistic. I am a firm believer that every person is composed of physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual facets, and each facet has an effect on the other aspects of the person. I have counseled individuals who have received such diagnoses as schizophrenia, bipolar, major depressive disorder, borderline personality disorder, narcissistic personality disorder, anxiety adjustment disorder to name a few. My counseling style is down-to-earth, warm, and nonthreatening. However, I will set boundaries, and I can be firm regarding those boundaries. I will correct anything that enhances negativity or the stigma that seems to accompany mental illness. I also believe in treating my clients the way I want to be treated. It is my belief that everyone has the right to a more content and rewarding life. If you are brave enough to face the issues that have kept you from these goals, then I am proud that you have chosen me to stand by your side to help you reach your goals. I look forward to working with you!