Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Kalamazoo, MI

I work with clients who have various types of trauma , and its effects on the individual and their environment. My experience in the field began with providing therapy for adults with substance use disorders and co-occurring mental heath disorders. I have worked with people who suffer with many different forms of trauma and traumatic experiences. I have also work with clients dealing with loss and grief. I have an extensive experience working as a first responder (firefighter, paramedic, and police officer) before I entered in to my career as a counselor. I also specialize in working with first responders and their unique needs.

Therapy isn't easy, but with dedication, support, and a touch of humor, I will see you through. I treat PTSD , Depression, Addictions, Borderline Personality Disorders, Health issues, ADHD, Couples issues, Grief, and anger and more. Supervision for LLPC's.

I began as a life coach and became a therapist in 2017 because I wanted to help people in a deeper way. I adjust to your pace: maybe you are coming in with a concern about something that happened recently and you just want another person's insight on it; or maybe you have past trauma that you'd like to finally unhook from. With deeper work, I like to get an idea of your whole picture -- emotionally, psychologically and spiritually -- so I can help you reach whatever goal or resolve whatever issue you come in with.

My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe, non-judgmental environment where we can work together to help you deal with the challenges that life throws your way. I can help by giving you the tools that you need to cope with your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I can also help you develop skills for dealing with past or current trauma , mood disorders and self-harm behaviors, among other things.

Life can be challenging at times. Trying to make sense and work through painful and difficult life experiences can often seem like a daunting task. Whether you are struggling with day to day stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues or behaviors that interfere with you living the life that you desire, my practice provides a safe and warm environment where you can identify personal goals, engage in meaningful therapy and find resolution and healing. Empathy and sensitivity to your struggles are key components of my work. This first step towards change solidifies your courage and innate potential toward intentional living.

I have experience working with children and adults with PTSD , complex trauma , anxiety, depression, grief, parenting, ADHD, child welfare issues, and suicidal ideation. I have specialty training in Trauma -Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and the practice and use of mindfulness strategies. I have seen and experienced the process of trauma recovery and can understand the various levels trauma can impact people's lives. Nurturing a healthy thought-life is a helpful tool towards building resilience and strength in trauma and various other mental health needs.

On our journey through life we sometimes face challenges that lead us to seek out additional support. Life is messy and we are here to help you be intentional with your approach to treatment and pull on your strengths to get through the challenges you are facing. Together with our therapists here at Intentional Journey Counseling we will work with you to discover your strengths and build skills to help you on your journey through healing.

You are unique in all the world! There is no one just like you with your story or life. Your family, pets, friends, community--where you came from--what you have overcome and endured-all these make you the unique person you are. At some time you may wish to turn the page on your story. My therapy involves walking with you while you decide where you want to go from here--who the person is that you want to be--how you want your life and story to change. I will listen and challenge, support and invite you to learn new skills and growth.

When working with children, I strive to create a calm and inviting environment where children and adolescents feel safe enough to discuss trauma or any other concerns impacting their daily life. I believe therapy is a very personal experience that requires a non-judgmental, genuine, and compassionate relationship between client and therapist. I understand that building a truly effective, collaborative relationship must include transparency and openness. In therapy, I understand the connection between physiology, environment, and mental health.

Being content, comfortable, and at peace with oneself is something many, if not all, wish to feel and experience. As a therapist that has walked alongside the journeys of individuals from diverse walks of life, I seek to empower individuals to be curious about oneself in order to live a life that brings you closer to understanding your past and fears of the future in order to live a present self-life. For many years I have worked with diverse populations, spanning many different cultures and ethnicities. With Spanish being my native language, I have had the privilege of working with many individuals from Spanish speaking countries.

Asking for help can be difficult. At Acacia, we understand that entering therapy can be a big step and how important it is that you feel respected, seen and heard. Our experience includes helping children, adolescents, adults, and families navigate difficult times in their lives. We work to help them feel empowered to make changes in their relationships, careers, or personal goals. Together, we will develop a treatment strategy that focuses on the issues and changes that you identify and are ready to address.

Oftentimes reaching out is the most difficult step in the healing process. Whether you are seeking guidance moving through difficult life transitions, coping with trauma , exploring your identity, or working through difficulty in family or romantic relationships, I aim to create a safe and accepting space for you to share your own unique experience. It is my belief that you are the expert on your own life and my role as a therapist is to collaborate on progress toward your growth and goals as you define them.

I believe in the wisdom within each of us and work to instill in each person a deep sense of self-respect and compassion. My work includes cognitive, psycho-spiritual, and expressive approaches. I use emotional release techniques for deep change in thinking and feeling patterns that interfere with current well-being and functioning. For addiction issues, I provide ear acupuncture and help people assess the extent of the problem and stop the harm. We then work through the recovery stages. For PTSD from childhood trauma or from military service I use several approaches, including Prolonged Exposure Therapy.

I am someone who genuinely cares for the people I work with, not just as clients, but as fellow human beings. I provide effective counseling in a safe and confidential space free of judgment. I specialize in working with Anxiety Disorders, Couples, Trauma , Grief, Sexual Addictions, and Spiritual Growth, but have extensive experience working with adults on a wide range of concerns.

Sometimes life can rock us to the core. And starting your journey toward growth and healing is not only a sign of strength - it's brave! It is my priority to ease any concerns you may have about the therapeutic process. I also hope to truly understand who you are and where you're at in life. Whatever the issue(s) may be, I am dedicated to working as a team to process concerns affecting your overall well-being.