Couples Counseling Therapists in Fort Wayne, IN

I have worked extensively with at-risk youth and families, addressing trauma, depression, anxiety, and the effects of substance abuse on family dynamics. I utilize humanistic and existential psychotherapy to meet clients where they are and assist them in achieving their therapeutic goals. I gained specialized experience in multicultural counseling and bi-cultural adjustment through serving the refugee population of Fort Wayne and, I have a background in gender activism and politics. I use my experience working with marginal populations to create a safe and affirming space for all individuals.

Life can certainly be overwhelming at times! I have had my fair share of those seasons, times when I wasn’t sure I’d make it out, times when I thought this is how it’ll always be, times when hopeless seemed accurate. Perhaps you are feeling that way now? Or maybe you’re feeling like everything is stagnate, boring, wondering to yourself “what’s the point?” Today more than ever, mental health matters!

I believe that counseling is a collaborative process in which I want to compassionately work with you in meeting your personal therapeutic goals. Taking this first important step in caring for your mental health can be overwhelming, but I would like to provide a safe and healing space for you to explore these challenges and facilitate change. I view each person holistically with physical, emotional, social, occupational, and spiritual facets, and want to insure that you feel supported and hopeful in these areas of life. Allow me the privilege to assist you in learning to cope and even thrive through life's challenges.

I specialize in working with those with anxiety and depression. I also have a particular focus on family structure as appropriate. I focus on the well being of the client and their environment. I use a strength based approach to encourage personal growth.

I'm looking forward to meeting you, hearing your story, and helping you find healing. Years of education and experience have afforded me the wisdom and ability to help you understand the mental distress you are experiencing, and then to collaborate and create the most effective treatment plan possible. In addition to being a counselor, I am a business woman, a wife of 33 years, a mother of 4 adult children, and a grandmother. I understand that the struggles we all face are personal and often profound. My goal is to create an atmosphere that provides my clients comfort, care, Christianity, and compassion.

Do not let surface issues and situations diminish you. Research indicates there is a need for a shift in our health care focus; one that focuses more on balance of mind, body, and spirit. How can we begin to interact with others in ways that strengthens harmony within ourselves. A system that learns how to use that system of balance with others. After 25 years of practice in the mental health field, I now realize that without balance we constantly struggle with our past, present and anticipated future issues. Focus and mindfulness seem to escape us as the tools to bring about resolution within ourselves.

Accepting new clients for telehealth! Whatever life transition, stage, or event one might be in, I am passionate about coming alongside individuals and families to help them heal, grow and navigate the challenges of life.

Are you struggling with addiction, mental health challenges or involved with the criminal justice system? Do you want to stop your addiction, control your depression, anxiety, emotions, or successfully get out of the criminal justice system?

Are you struggling to find answers to daily problems? Are you dealing with issues and feel completely alone and overwhelmed? Is it hard to get out of bed and motivate to get the day started? Is it terrifying to go out in society, yet lonely staying home? Call Cook Behavioral Health and let us help you find the answers to your problems.

Accepting new clients! I completed my Masters at St Francis and am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Certified Master Addiction Counselor. I previously spent 15 years in the child welfare field working with families, children, and adolescents both in and out of the home and have run court-ordered substance abuse groups. I now own my own practice, which is a culmination of all my previous experiences. At Thrive Therapy I take a holistic and integrated approach, treating each client as an individual with unique needs. Every session is tailored according to the client's current situation.

It is not easy to ask for help. You have gotten to a point where you feel it is time. This is a brave choice. I am honored that you would choose me to walk this journey with you.

Are you surrounded by people, but still feel utterly alone? Are you just plain sick and tired of pretending you are “fine”, when underneath it all you are barely hanging on? Are you looking for a safe place where you can truly feel heard and understood, even when you don’t have the exact words for what you are feeling? I know how important it is to have a safe space where you are free to just be. To be understood, seen, and heard when you are at your lowest. You don't have to suffer silently & alone.

As individuals, we are shaped by our experiences and in order to move forward, it is often necessary to explore our past. Narrative Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy are my primary forms of therapy used. As the client, it is important that you understand your own story, and how your emotions, actions and problems fit into the context of your story.