I provide support for the client and their parents/caregivers through the complex journey that is Autism. Social skills training, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, family support,and collaboration with school providers to ensure a continuity of care for the adolescents/young adults to move them to a higher level of functioning. As a former school counselor, I know the level of support needed for my clients to be successful in the school setting and am aware of ways in which to collaborate effectively with the area schools

One of the greatest struggles most adolescents self-report today is unyielding anxiety. Through CBT, Mindfulness Techniques, Social Skills Training, and Communication Skill Building, adolescents can work through issues safely and develop their own plan to conquer anxiety and adjustment issues on their own timeline. Many adolescents/young adults are so overwhelmed by their anxiety, they are not aware of its source and what they can do to control their surroundings. Through careful exploration, my clients develop new and fresh self-awareness, which can be the first step in their healing process.

As a former Director of Family Therapy at an outpatient UAB Clinic, I understand the unique needs of families with children who are struggling. My years as a school counselor also provide me with the insight into what family support parents/caregivers need in terms of academic struggles, school refusal, oppositional/defiant behaviors, and family disengagement. I am able to provide parents/caregivers support for both their home situation and day to day life with a teenager, as well as school based collaboration to assist with issues going on within the school.

Years as a university professor have grounded me in the belief that study skills and time management need to begin as early as possible. As a former school counselor, I am passionate about ensuring that kids know their unique learning style, have study skills, are aware of the importance of time management, and have a plan for success for each school year. I am familiar with the academic curriculum of our high schools, and can build unique support strategies for students that alleviate the power struggles related to homework at home!

In today's world, parenting an adolescent with significant issues can be overwhelming. Many parents feel defeated and demoralized and over time, become disengaged. I am passionate about rebuilding family relationships, improving family communication, and offering parents/caregivers their own support in order to improve their engagement with their loved one. Parent support is a passion of Rise Counseling and parents/caregivers can find a "safe space" to share their honest struggles with their unique needs.

Experience in clinical outpatient treatment as well as years of experience as a school counselor provide me with the necessary foundation to assist adolescents and young adults with a vast array of emotional, social, academic, and adjustment issues.