Philosophy and Approach To Counseling
My role as a counselor is to assist clients
in making desired changes leading to greater satisfaction and
effectiveness in their lives. I strive to provide a respectful,
supportive environment and a collaborative approach to assessing
strengths, identifying issues, and solving problems.
My essential philosophy of counseling
springs from a Christian worldview, with the conviction that
every person is valuable, unique, and has the potential for
healing and growth throughout life. I draw from a variety of
methods – particularly Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and
conciliation work – adapted to the needs of each client.
Education and Training
I received a Master of Arts Degree in
Counseling Psychology from Lewis and Clark College in Portland,
Oregon. I have also completed advanced training in Christian
Conciliation and Mediation through Peacemaker Ministries of
Billings, Montana.
Additional training and experience has
focused on sexual abuse recovery, domestic violence, depression,
anxiety disorders, PTSD, grief, coping with chronic illness,
relationship counseling, parenting, and solution-focused
therapy. I participate in regular continuing education in
subjects relevant to the profession.
I am not presently licensed as a counselor
by the Oregon Board of Licensed Professional Counselors and
Therapists, but I abide by its Code of Ethics.
Fee Schedule
Fees for counseling services are $155.00 for the initial session
and $105.00 for each subsequent individual session. Some
adjustment in fees is possible in cases of need and when
discussed in advance with the counselor.
Client Bill of Rights
As a client working with me you have the
following rights:
- To expect that I have met the minimum
qualifications of training and experience required by state law.
- To obtain a copy of the Code of Ethics for the
Oregon Board of Licensed Professional Counselors and Therapists.
- To be informed of the cost of professional
services before receiving the services
- To be assured of privacy and confidentiality while
receiving services as defined by rule and law, including the
following exceptions:
a) Reporting suspected child or elder
abuse;
b) Reporting imminent danger to the
client or others;
c) Court-ordered release of
information;
d) Professional case consultation or
supervision;
e) Defending claims brought by the
client against the counselor.
- To be free from discrimination on the basis of
race, religion, gender, or other protected category while
receiving services.
- To participate fully in developing your counseling
plan.
- To report complaints to the Director(s) of Salem
Pastoral Counseling Center (SPCC), and/or the Executive Board of
SPCC.