I completed my undergraduate studies at The Mississippi Valley State University, located in Itta Bena, Mississippi (Bachelor of Social Work Degree (BSW)). I completed my graduate and doctoral studies at the University of Tennessee Memphis/Knoxville, Tennessee (Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW) & Doctor of Social Work (DSW).
My relative professional experience spans more than 12 years. During this time, I served as a licensed master social worker (LMSW)/ licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) within the medical and mental health community. Currently, I serve as a hospice social worker and a mental health therapist. While fulfilling this never-ending calling, I was fortunate enough to provide counseling services to adults who are emotionally (wounded) ill, (e.g. depression); chronically ill, (e.g. cancer, end stage renal disease, HIV, etc.…); chemically dependent (e.g. alcohol, cocaine, etc.…); and who are experiencing psychotic disorders (e.g. schizophrenia).
By utilizing counseling modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing, I am able to provide the mental health clients/consumers that I serve with the opportunity of learning how to handle these challenges in a healthier manner. My clinical versatility makes it possible for me to be able to provide mental health services to all types of learners (e.g., audio, visual, etc...). I carry out this clinical necessity by utilizing techniques such as visual imagery, writing exercises, stop/distraction techniques, and among others.
Additional areas of focus: Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Grief, Aging and Geriatric Issues, Attachment issues, Body image, Cancer, Caregiver issues and stress
Clinical approaches: Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy
TN LCSW 5504
MS LCSW C7512