Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Salem, IL

You deserve to live a life that you love. There are many people who see therapy as something intrusive, not necessary or believing that they will be judged. As a therapist, I believe that the connection built between the patient and therapist is the foundation that can lead you to the life that you want to live. My only goal as a therapist is to help you achieve your goals and to see you become happier with the life you are currently living. Yes, sometimes therapy can bring up painful emotions, memories or events, but this pain can lead to growth and a better life.

Certified EMDR Therapist. Certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapies. Trained in Brainspotting. Extensive experience providing trauma-focused therapy to adolescents/adults with attachment related disorders, anxiety and depression.

‘A speaker raises a glass of water and asks the audience, “How heavy do you think this glass of water is?” His answer: “It depends on how long you hold it. It is the exact same weight, but the longer I hold it, the heavier it becomes. If we carry our burdens all the time, sooner or later, we will not be able to carry on, the burden becoming increasingly heavier.”’ Occasionally, we have to set our burdens down so that we are able to recharge and prepare ourselves to continue moving forward. I am deeply committed to providing pathways to support and to create the best environment possible for clients.

Do you suffer from Depression or have Suicidal Thoughts? TMS provides true treatment with a 75% success rate in treatment with 50% of patients experiencing a full remission of symptoms for patients who struggle with depression and OCD. This includes those who have tried multiple medications and struggled with side effects or have not received relief. TMS is not painful or disruptive, does not cause systemic side effects, and does not require hospitalization or anesthesia. Results are often noticed by family and friends within a week. Patient often report results as early as 3 weeks into treatment.

I finished my master's degree in Rehabilitation Counseling in 2013, and since then I've worked with adults, adolescents, and families in private practice, residential treatment facilities, online, and correctional facilities. I specialize in anxiety, behavioral issues, child abuse or neglect, coping skills, trauma, and PTSD. I use a mix of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Applied Behavioral Analysis, and Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) therapies. I promote a person-centered relationship with people interested in identifying and pursuing their values/goals.

I have noticed that most clients want to understand what they are experiencing. They want to find relief from their symptoms and feel they have some control over their lives. With support and education, I have noticed clients are more receptive to treatment and recovery.

Do you feel overwhelmed with some of your life circumstances? Have you experienced trauma: a divorce, job-loss, traumatic birth, difficult diagnosis, or domestic violence? Are you depressed, struggling with low self-esteem, lacking motivation, or needing help transitioning through life? I believe that every individual has what it takes to succeed and live a fulfilling life. Sometimes, we have to go through the darkest storms to see the brightest rainbows. Without the right tools and a safe non-judgmental space, it may feel impossible to weather the storm on your own.

Do you suffer from Depression or have Suicidal Thoughts? TMS provides true treatment with a 75% success rate in treatment with 50% of patients experiencing a full remission of symptoms for patients who struggle with depression and OCD. This includes those who have tried multiple medications and struggled with side effects or have not received relief. TMS is not painful or disruptive, does not cause systemic side effects*, and does not require hospitalization or anesthesia. Results are often noticed by family and friends within a week. Patient often report results as early as 3 weeks into treatment.

Courage isn’t having the strength to go on - it is going on when you don’t feel like you have the strength. You need an immense amount of courage to stay the course and struggle even when you are almost ready to give up on life. I am here to listen, and walk beside you even when it feels like everything and maybe everyone is against you.

Unsure if your child's behavior is age appropriate? Is your adolescent having difficulties in academics or social connections? Are you struggling with adjusting to life changes or reflecting on past experiences that cause you to feel uneasy? Not sure how to work out differences between you and your partner or within your family? I am here to help your child play out any fears, worries, and past traumas, help your adolescent feel empowered, find solutions, and discover self identity, help adults navigate life transitions, and help couples/families explore conflict. Most of all, I focus on your needs to cultivate trust and safety.

Our significant relationships and life history have shaped our individual beliefs and behaviors. Often times those beliefs and behaviors prove to be limiting and may keep us stuck. At times, we find ourselves anxious or depressed, stressed in our relationships and out of balance. By increasing awareness and healthy living skills, counseling offers an opportunity to change your circumstances and/or your response to them.

A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. - Lao Tzu. Making the phone call for help sometimes is the hardest part! Do you feel that you have been taking care of everybody but yourself? Counseling is a safe way to tell your story and work through obstacles that have been in your way. It can provide you with insight to help put you in a better place. I would like to hear your story and help you meet your therapy goals!

Often times life can get tough. It can affect you, your marriage/relationship, your family, your children, your ability to parent, your self-worth, and more than anything, your ability to overcome any obstacles you are facing. I believe within each of us we have the strength to overcome the impossible. Out of pain comes something stronger, better, and the ability to thrive. I believe you already have the answers you seek and you contain the ability to change the worst circumstances. Sometimes our paths are hidden by everything weighing us down, which can make us feel overwhelmed. This can prevent us from seeing a way out...