Specialties
Chronic Pain/Illness
My clients who are living with chronic health conditions have shared with me that sometimes more painful than the disease is the experience of feeling unheard. Family members, friends, and even healthcare providers may seem not to listen or hear. Clients have shared they feel invalidated which can be an isolating experience and lead to depressive symptoms.
It can get better. My experience tells me we can identify coping mechanisms together that will work for you. I can provide a foundation in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindful self-compassion, strengths-based positive psychology and cognitive behavioral therapy that will allow you to tap into the tools you need to ease physical and emotional distress. I can offer a Biblical perspective on hope and healing through the darkest days.
I see clients around the state of Florida via telehealth or locally in person based on your preference.
Self-harm
14- 20% of adolescents report having intentionally hurt themselves at least once in their lifetime. The most common methods of self-harm include cutting, burning, scratching, and bruising. Although self-harm can occur at any age, it starts most frequently in early teens.
I have been privileged to walk beside young people who used NSSI (non-suicidal self-injury) as a coping mechanism. Some reported they did it to feel something. Some said it made the emotional hurt they felt less intense. Some did it to express anger. I respect the bravery required to face this challenge and I am grateful for those who allow me to bear witness to their path.
The very first piece we address together is always a safety plan. The first priority is to establish safety with options the young person and parent choose. Then we can move into treatment.
Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) focuses on fostering more healthy coping strategies and modifying negative thinking, especially negative self-talk. We also work to change thoughts about NSSI to enable teens to see it as a problematic method to cope with distress.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) targets unhealthy thinking, enhances emotion
regulation, and encourages healthy coping strategies. DBT uses mindfulness, distress tolerance, processing and modifying emotional reactions, and developing interpersonal relationships.
My clients share they find it important to have a space where they can unpack their fears, thoughts, and dreams without recrimination. The safe space I provide for them goes a long way toward their willingness to try healthier, safer coping mechanisms. Let’s walk this path together. When you get to the other side you can experience joy as well as pain.
Get In Touch
Call
941-499-7705
Address
Abundant Life Christian Counseling, 10491 Ben C. Pratt/6 Mile Cypress #241, Fort Myers, FL 33966
Hours
Tues/Thurs (Onsite or Virtual): 5pm – 8pm
Wed (Virtual Only): 5pm – 8pm