- Substance Abuse/Dependence & Mental Health Evaluation:

I utilize several different formal and informal tools to determine if a client meets the DSM-IV-TR criteria for substance abuse/dependence and/or mental health disorders. I also refer to ASAM criteria in determining the correct treatment level if treatment is deemed appropriate. Due to my experience providing evaluations and counseling in outpatient, IOP, and residential settings, I have the clinical experience and discernment to effectively evaluate clients and make appropriate treatment recommendations.

I refer out UA's/BA's at this time.

-Individual, Family, and Group Therapy:

Benefits of counseling~

• increased self-confidence
• reconciliation and improved relationships
• stress relief
• inner peace/content
  
• work through stages of grief
  
• enthusiasm for life
• healthy coping skills
  
• improved functioning (sleep, diet, school/work achievement, etc.)
• alleviation of physical symptoms (ex. stomach ache) due to healing emotional issues
  
• to connect with and express emotions 
• to be heard, validated, and supported
• have an objective & confidential "sounding board" in processing life and making decisions
  
• self-acceptance
  
• reconnect with your true nature; inherent goodness, inner wisdom, strengths and passions
  
• clarity about one's life's path (discover life purpose)
  
• go boldly into the world in pursuit of one's goals
• catalyst (increased motivation) for making desired changes
  

Reasons for seeking counseling~

• determining one's "path" (career, relationships, purpose, etc.)
• support during life transitions
• not reaching life goals or attaining success, but not feeling fulfilled
• identity issues (accepting & discovering oneself)
• depression/low self-esteem/discontent
• self-harm (ex. cutting)
• anger/violence
• bipolar disorder
• stress/anxiety/panic
• grief/loss
• HIV+ / A.I.D.S.
• childhood abuse and trauma
• relationship (family, friends, co-workers) conflicts
• unhealthy or abusive intimate relationships
• LGBTQ population

My experience as a K-12 special education teacher and department coordinator allows me to be a source of information and provide therapeutic support to individuals and their family regarding:

• learning disabilities
• attention deficit disorder
• Asperger's Syndrome
• emotional/behavioral disorders
• special education evaluations/I.E.P.'s & types of accommodations/services that colleges provide (if disabilities &/or mental health disorders, ex. bipolar, are properly documented, college students are entitled to receive accommodations to support their learning)

For information regarding the rights of students with disabilities, view the U.S. Department of Education's web site. Also, to read inspiring stories of entrepreneurs, doctors, writers, etc. who all succeeded despite having learning differences, check out: Succeeding with LD.

For assistance with abuse and addiction issues: See "Substance Abuse/Dependence"