Hello and thank you for being here and reading about me. I reside in Costa Rica and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in the States of California and Oregon with over 35 years of experience in a wide variety of settings, working with differing populations and ages. I have helped others who are looking to start or maintain their healing journey or are experiencing obstacles such as depression, anxiety, relationship conflict, addictions and trauma (including multi-generational trauma). My clinical focus is on individual adult men and women from various ethnic backgrounds. It has become abundantly clear to me (especially since working within a global Telehealth format) that regardless of where we come from or our individual life story, we all share the common needs for purpose, meaning, and value in our lives. Those who have worked with me on BetterHelp know that I pay close attention to words, love metaphors, and use humor when it is appropriate to do so. My style is warm and actively engaging and my approach pulls from various sources including solution-focused, dialectical behavior, narrative, and experiential therapies. I can't believe it has been over 6 years since I joined BH. I have developed a model "in honor" of this milestone. I hope it brings clarity to you as to how I may approach your situation. I look forward to meeting you: Joy’s CHIPS Model© … Chipping away at human problems Cognitive Distortions - checking in on narratives Communication - listening vs hearing, stonewalling, ghosting Comparisons - soul killer Compassion - Kindness towards Self? Others? Regret & Resentments Context - environment, culture, religion, health Control - can/can’t (anxiety/panic, codependency, addictions), fear of losing Healthy Distractions - Skills & Tools Honesty - transparency Humility - gratitude? narcissism? I - Am I making it all about me? codependency? narcissism? I - Interpretations & Assumptions, Emotional Maturity Patience Paying Attention - and Mindfulness Petrified - including fear of feeling better Physical - health, including its cause for MH issues Projection - onto others & forecasting Proof - of assumptions Purpose Self-Awareness Self-Sabotage Substances Support System Gratitud porque el corazón aprendió Gratitude because the heart learned Que agradecer es vivir mejor That being thankful is living better

10 years defines my experience providing dual diagnosis mental health related counseling services to adolescents, adults and elders in a variety of inpatient/outpatient services in the criminal justice system in conjunction with integrated clinical health systems services. This experience gave me a new direction and way of life consisting of personal growth and change I would like to share with you. Our goal is to share my experiences with those who seek to enhance their level of personal growth and change. Serving adolescents, adults, elders, couples, families and groups with my training in an eclectic variety of treatment modalities, the actual counseling approach with a given client is determined by your preference and personal goals. With the hope that your goals will center around the self discovery of personal strengths and yielding an increase in self esteem you will realize that your integrity is the most valuable asset about yourself. Upon this discovery you will be able to share with others as you become an extension of the counseling process. My theory is when people have hope and learn to challenge and replace irrational thoughts, beliefs and attitudes they create the biology of courage. By normalizing stress people are free to experience change. In Relationship focused therapy the counselor will identify strengths by asking family members to take note of the family dynamics they want to maintain The counselor will look for exceptions to the problem by asking couples to recount times when the problem did not occur and to account for why, to formulate a solution and highlight strengths. Couples will review worksheets and experience discoveries by working together to identify strengths and cultural differences. In my experience within the past 10 years couples will experience cohesion within the family unit in which they will find new meaning and purpose. Couples will set goals that identifies a renewed value driven direction as they discover what they want to work towards and what is really important to them. At Franciccan University I was made aware and adapted my Christian basesd counseling approach to center around the Eleven Human Emotions that describe the pleasure, appetite or human emotions. The goal to acquire the good through Love Desire and Joy and to avoid the evil of Hate Aversion and Sadness. These emotions make up the heart or inner core of mans emotional life. For difficult issues it is wise to recognize the Utilitatian or assertive emotions of Hope Courage and Anger versus Despair, Sadness and Fear. These Emotions give us the energy necessary to overcome obstacles that separate us from the things that are hard to get and what we really want. Clients are encouraged to engage in each component of the Eleven Human Emotions that will give them clarity and a renewed realtionship with the Holy Spirit thus gaining compassion for themselves and others. What do you have to lose and you have everything to gain by trying!

As a licensed therapist in Texas, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on empowering clients through challenges like depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and life transitions. I bring a compassionate, culturally-informed approach to addressing issues such as self-love, communication barriers, social anxiety, and personal growth. My therapeutic work focuses on creating a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, heal from past traumas, and develop meaningful strategies for emotional well-being. I'm particularly passionate about helping young adults, women, and individuals working through workplace stress, relationship challenges, and personal identity exploration. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I aim to help clients build resilience, enhance self-understanding, and cultivate healthier patterns of thinking and relating. My approach is collaborative, affirming, and tailored to each individual's unique journey and strengths.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over ten years of counseling experience. I have been a Social Worker for over 20 years and have worked with people of all ages and backgrounds. I have worked with a wide range of concerns from environmental, and situational to severe mental illness. I have worked in schools, community mental health facilities, and hospice. I believe in transparency and collaboration in practice. I believe in behavioral activation and a person's ability to overcome thinking errors through solution-focused goal setting and follow-through. I am confident that in working together, we can find tools and strategies that will assist in current and future concerns that effect your well-being. Congratulations on taking this first step and I look forward to meeting soon.

Hi, My name is Sarah and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, an Art Therapist, studio artist, public speaker, and LPC supervisor. I bring my lifelong art background and skills, training in Art Therapy, counseling, drug and alcohol counseling, and psychology, years of experience working with adolescence and their families, many years of motherhood, and 21 years of sobriety into my role as a helper. I enjoy working with adolescents, young adults, and adults, with varying levels of needs. There are many modalities that I am trained in, but it is my commitment and priority to collaborate to find a best fit approach, ensuring we develop a cohesive relational space in which to work together toward your goals. I believe relationship has the power to create positive change and I welcome the opportunity to walk alongside you in that endeavor. Reaching out for support can be challenging, but I encourage you to take that first step. I look forward to working together to achieve the outcomes you desire for yourself. You got this, and I believe in you. In the meantime, take care of yourself and those around you; take a moment to notice the spark inside you leading you forward. Until then, -Sarah-

I am licensed in Florida with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & anger management. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

My name is Kelly Gesker and I'm a nationally licensed therapist. I currently live in Montana. You can take a look at my profile to learn a little bit more about my background and approach. Please also feel free to ask questions. Online counseling is fairly new and new to me. I felt a strong connection to what is troubling you and believe that I could help you work through these issues. My counseling style is pretty laid back. I have been described as supportive, caring, and compassionate, with a pretty good sense of humor. I like to focus on identifying your strengths and helping you to maximize them to overcome your obstacles. I'm here to help you sort through the things that are difficult right now, and offer you a safe place to be open and honest without fear of judgment. You have taken the first and most important step by reaching out for help. I have been working with individuals and families for over 25+ years. You can read more about my background, education, experience, and counseling approach by clicking on my name on this page. I generally check messages here a few times per day Mon-Sat and respond as quickly as I can. I do appreciate your patience when it takes a bit longer at times, as I may be tending to other clients or professional/personal responsibilities. I'm sorry you are having a tough time right now, but I'm really glad you are reaching out. I'd like to help you work on the struggles you are facing; and offer you a safe place to explore your thoughts and feelings. It sounds like you have a great deal going and that this might be impacting your mood and energy. Once you respond to this message, I will send you some additional general information about how this online counseling process works, and then we can get started. Should you feel in need of urgent help or that you are in crisis at any time during our work together; please call 1-800-273-TALK 24 hours a day; or 911. This forum does not provide any type of emergency services, so I want to be sure you know who to contact if you need immediate help. You are not alone. Things can and will get better. I'm really looking forward to working with you!

I am licensed in Ohio, Oregon, and Arizona with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, & anger management. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. Brenda

As a licensed therapist in Oregon, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex life challenges with compassion and understanding. My professional approach centers on helping clients work through addiction, relationship dynamics, family conflicts, and personal growth. I offer a faith-informed and conservative therapeutic perspective, creating a safe space for clients to explore their experiences and emotions. My expertise spans a wide range of areas, including social anxiety, trauma recovery, life transitions, and personal development. My practice focuses on empowering individuals to build self-love, discover life purpose, and heal from past experiences. I'm particularly passionate about supporting young adults, veterans, and those working through challenging personal transformations. Whether you're struggling with relationship issues, processing trauma, or seeking personal growth, I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy and professional guidance.

I am licensed in Oregon with 44 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

Hello! My name is Tiffany, and I enjoy helping others find ways to manage stress and anxiety, improve relationships, and build motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I believe you possess the ability live your best and most enjoyable life. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

I am licensed in Louisiana with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. Most of my clients come to me feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, and disconnected. They are ready to recover from their past and expand their inner resources. They are ready to discover how they can transform difficulty into growth. If this sounds like you, don't hesitate to reach out!

As a licensed therapist in Oregon, I bring over two decades of compassionate mental health experience to my practice. My approach centers on understanding and supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes, with specialized expertise in depression, anxiety, family dynamics, trauma recovery, and mood disorders. I am an adhd specialist and trained to complete evaluations for children, teens and adults. I am deeply committed to creating a supportive, affirming therapeutic environment where clients can explore their challenges and develop meaningful strategies for personal growth. My work is grounded in evidence-based practices that honor each person's unique journey and inherent strengths. Through collaborative and empathetic counseling, I aim to help individuals build resilience, gain insights, and cultivate healthier emotional patterns. I believe in meeting each client exactly where they are, offering gentle guidance and unconditional support throughout their healing process. My professional background reflects a profound dedication to mental wellness and a genuine passion for helping people transform their lives with compassion, respect, and understanding.

Hi! My name is Annie and I have been a therapist for over 20 years. I am so glad you found your way here today. Just by dropping in here, you have taken a HUGE step in your healing journey. As Lao Tzu says, "The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step." Today you have taken that step. I'm so proud of you already! We are going to rock this healing process together. The most important thing in the world to me is to sit with you in your pain. You are not alone, and we will figure this out together. I am an eclectic therapist who uses multiple modalities specific to each client's needs. I love using Narrative and IFS. I work with humans struggling with Eating Disorders, and co-occurring issues such as Anxiety, Depression, Self Harm, Substance Abuse/Addiction. I am also comfortable working with those who identify as LGBTQIA+, Gender Dysphoria and Sexual issues/dysfunction. It is so important that my clients feel the warmth of me and my energy - this is your healing process, and while it is a journey, it should also feel comfortable. I will push you, but not more than you are ready to be pushed. Our first session will feel a little bit like an interview for both you and me! You are interviewing me too!