Therapists serving clients in Sun, LA

My former principal once described me as a “natural born” teacher. Over the years, I have grown to love the process of acquiring knowledge, researching information, developing presentation policies, implementing programs, and initiating quality improvement initiatives. Because of this, my long-term goal is one affect change on a macro level. However, currently, I am in the process of fulfilling a goal that stems from a lifelong passion of mine that involves working with individuals with severe and persistent mental illness, substance abuse, and intellectual impairments. My overall goal is to assist individuals within this population with maximizing their ability to live, socialize, learn, and work in communities of their choice. To achieve efficient outcomes, it is important for me to develop a strong clinical foundation. This was my rationale for completing the MSW program and engaging in the process to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist. Over the years, I have become extremely efficient in developing, implementing, and providing oversight and monitoring of social policies and programs. As a result, I have obtained a multifunctional leadership skill set that include a copious amount of knowledge that is directly related to mental health and psychiatric programs. This information is valuable to oversee the daily and fiscal operations of programs in a competent manner. My ability to initiate entrepreneurial social-service start-ups and propel them to midsize companies has been proven by my dynamic record of accomplishment. My program development and implementation skills have proven to be valuable on my journey to becoming a self-regulating change agent. This was beneficial when I began the process of opening MHP Human Services, Inc. Past Academic and Professional Experiences My undergraduate studies were in Criminal Justice, which led to the beginning of my career in the human service field. Initially, I worked for the Department of Corrections as a Correctional Officer and later becoming an Intermediate level Probation and Parole Officer. During my tenure as a Probation and Parole Officer, I was promoted to oversee the Drug Treatment Court program. My compassion to serve individuals sparked my decision to further my education in the human service field, which, led to my pursuit to obtain a Master of Arts degree in Elementary Education, which launched my career as a licensed elementary school teacher. The opportunity to work with children from diverse populations with various learning needs was a rewarding experience that caused me to want to work directly with families in their home and community. This prompted me to obtain part-time employment as a paraprofessional and later a qualified professional. Eventually, this opportunity led to my first entrepreneurial endeavor, A+ Absolute Care, Inc. This private agency provided outpatient and community-based services to children, adolescents, and adults with mental illnesses, substance abuse disorders, and intellectual impairments. As a business owner, it was a necessary for me to acquire knowledge of business and accounting practices, which led to my obtaining a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree and later Lean Six Sigma Black Belt. The combination of education and experience allowed me to develop and implement policies, procedures, programs, business, strategic, and risk management plans for the purpose of operating a business and meeting local, state, and national accreditation standards. Unfortunately, I soon learned that a solid foundation of business practices and principles was not enough to ensure that the individuals that I served were receiving quality treatment and yielding positive outcomes. To ensure quality assurance and improvement for the services that my agency was providing it was important for me to further my clinical knowledge, which led to my pursuit of a Master is Social Work (MSW). After obtaining my MSW, I began the process to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist. Currently, I am enrolled in a Doctorate in Social Worker (DSW) at University of Southern California. Innovation and Creativity Over the past years, I have been able to develop and implement numerous programs that provide services to individuals from diverse cultures and socio-economic programs. Not only did I develop policies and procedures, implement, monitor, and provide oversight of programs, I also provided direct care and therapeutic services to individuals served. As an African American, female providing service to individuals from cultural backgrounds and ethnicities different from my own it is vital that I incorporate strategies and techniques that promote trust and rapport building. To achieve this, I tailored each individual treatment process and use a variety of evidence -based practices such as Cognitive Behavior, Motivational Interviewing, and Problem Solving techniques to increase treatment effectiveness. Because of the diversity of the population that I provide community-based services, it is pertinent that principles relating to the Ecosystem perspective are implemented. In addition, the treatment planning process has to be individualized, and it is vital that I take into consideration the individual served and his or her environment. When developing the treatment plan, innovation and creativity are necessary for identifying the individual served strengths and use these strengths to empower him or her during the treatment process. In addition, during the treatment process, it is pertinent that I consider psychological and sociological theoretical underpinnings that explain causal factors for social and personal behavior deficits. As mentioned previously, the primary population that I provide services to is individuals with severe and persistent mental illnesses. Many of these individuals experience extreme difficulty coping and managing psychiatric symptoms. Because the psychotic symptoms associated with their illness is often ongoing, it may be difficult to motivate individuals to comply with treatment recommendations, medication regimens, or tasks to meet their daily needs. Because the outcome of treatment non-compliance can be severe, as a clinician I have to engage in strategies and techniques that are innovative and creative to develop a positive rapport and find ways to motivate the individual to adhere to treatment recommendations. This often requires me to use a team approach and collaborate with other stakeholders, natural and professional supports to encourage the individual to engage in goal-oriented tasks. In addition, because of the needs of individuals within population change consistently, engaging in ongoing symptom monitoring and management of individuals within this population is also important. Because as these individuals need changes, so does the need for clinicians to use creative and innovative strategies to motivate compliance increases. Individuals with SMPI also experience crisis at increase and frequent rates, which is another reason to employ creative and innovative techniques during the crisis response and de-escalation process. Communicate with Key Stakeholders Another task that I frequently engage in is communication and collaboration with stakeholders. These individuals include the individual served, natural and professional supports, licensed professionals, case managers, surveyors that provide oversight and monitoring, and members of the community. As a clinician, it is instrumental for me to provide case management services to individuals that I serve to assist them with improving functioning in various life domains and as a preventive measure. One way to achieve this is to collaborate with community agencies and external resources, which strengthens the individual served treatment outcomes. Often alternate treatment providers including natural, professional, and community resources are needed to achieve positive outcomes. This also requires me to engage in activities to coordinate collaborative preventive efforts by contacting these agencies and linking the individual served to alternative treatment resources. As a result of ongoing collaboration with alternate resources, the I am able to develop community partnerships with internal and external resources. Lead and Manage Teams In the past and in my current position, my leadership skills have allowed me to conceive and execute goal-driven strategies that create a branded platform for growth. I led three agencies from start-up mental health to serving a multi-facet population that provides an array of services to individuals diagnosed with mental health and developmental disabilities in multiple locations throughout the state. The leadership role required me to spearhead continuous process improvements across all specialized services, human resources, and administration. The outcome of processes yielded an increase in revenue, improved quality metrics, improved profit margin, reduced costs, and increased net profit of service-delivery operations for all agencies. My skill set includes the following: Strategy/Mission & Vision Planning Organizational Design Grant Writing, Oversight, and Implementation Financial Risk Management Structured Finance & Securitized Debt Service Delivery Architecture Quality Assurance and Improvement Corporate Compliance Business & Service Delivery Development Human Resource and Staff Development New Service Launch Collaborate with Communities and Professional Networks As a clinician and business owner, it is vital that I build strong community partnerships with other professionals and members of the community. My agency provides residential and outpatient services to individuals with SMPI. Because of this, I communicate daily with members of the professional community to ensure that individuals that I serve are receiving the most clinically effective service. Also, my agency is licensed by the state, therefore; I receive ongoing auditing and monitoring from local and state entities. These organizations include Department of Social Services, pharmacy, psychiatrist, hospitals, inpatient psychiatric facilities, law enforcement, fire marshal, code enforcement, and other entities. Professional Interest I have spent my entire professional career, which spans over 20 years working in the human service field. My professional goals involve advocating and developing policies and programs that will provide adequate residential services and outpatient treatment to individuals with SPMI. Long-term goals that I have developed involve affecting change from various levels.

My name is Karen Medlock. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both Texas and Louisiana. I have two Masters' Degrees, one in Social Work and one in Theology. I take a holistic approach with my clients. I have worked with all age groups, from three years old all the way in the eighties. Yes, I have been around awhile. I have teaching certifications in Michigan and taught Kindergarten through twelfth grade. The experiences I had as a teacher were tremendous and very helpful in my therapeutic relationships with adolescents and teenagers. I enjoy working with all age groups and totally enjoy diversity in culture, race and sexual orientation. I ran and did sexual offender treatment with male adult offenders at Norton Correctional Center in Norton, Kansas, which gave me a great magnitude of skills in addiction treatment, running groups and providing psycho-social classes in multitudes of topics. I would have to say working with inmates in state prisons is very rewarding for me because I can now view them as people with problems from the past that have never been dealt with for the most part. Also, I have much experience in helping people work through trauma and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, including the severe panic attacks that occur. I have worked extensively with grief and loss. I am very excited to be a part of Better Help because it is a way for people who need help to access me at various times via text, phone or video. It is a good medium for all those who are a bit shy to meet in person (or aren't ready) or have tight schedules. I am very excited to work with you! I am quite a laid-back therapist, and always respond to where you are in your life-path. We all are on personal life journeys...let's use this time to explore and traverse new worlds and paths! I will help you develop your strengths and accompany you on your journey.

Hello there, I am a licensed professional counselor licensed in Louisiana and Texas with over 17 years’ experience working as a therapist and art therapy certified life coach. I have also recently completed advanced studies in naturopathic medicine (natural medicine), with a specialization in behavioral health disorders. I have supported clients with multiple concerns, including behavioral modification support, impulsivity, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting support, sexual dysfunction, intimacy challenges, sexually addictive behaviors, career challenges, and trauma. My counseling style is warm, encouraging, and supportive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach to supporting clients combines cognitive-behavioral therapy, client-centered, solution-focused counseling, and holistic (natural) interventions to support your therapeutic goals . This space is designed to support you with addressing your expressed goals, and I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life. Please know, you are not alone, I am here as part of your team to support, empower, and share valuable strategies you as you begin this quest to being your best! I look forward to connecting soon! ~Dr. Wendy Q. Durant, ND, LPC-S, RPT-S, CST Areas of Expertise • ADHD • Anger management • Anxiety, Panic Disorder, & Stress Management • Behavior Modification • Communication Challenges, • Codependency • Coping Skills • Career coaching • Depression/Postpartum Depression • Divorce • Family conflicts • Intimacy Challenges • Parenting Issues • Pre-Marital Supports • Relationship Challenges • Self-esteem • Trauma • Work-Life-Balance Clinical approaches: • Art Certified Life Coach • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) • Client-Centered Therapy • Mindfulness Practices • Holistic Therapeutic Interventions • Solution-Focused Therapy

I am a mental health professional living in Louisiana, but licensed as an LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor) in both Louisiana and Texas. I have approximately 25 years of experience working with clients of various ages, ethnicities, and backgrounds. I have worked with clients with a wide variety of concerns including: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and phase of life issues (i.e. stress related to divorce, mid-life crisis, work/life balance, aging concerns, etc.) I have also worked with and been a part of a military family. My therapy style is very warm and relational. I believe that everyone has a right to seek their highest level of functioning and I am always happy to assist anyone with that goal in mind. My therapeutic approach is primarily client-centered with a strong influence of the cognitive behavioral approach. I will work with you in a manner that best meets your needs and moves you toward your personal goals. I look forward to working with you.

Over-thinking and replaying situations from the past? Are you constantly over-analyzing your present-day life, not knowing how to navigate towards your future? You don't need to stay stuck in a toxic headspace. With 10 years of experience in Mental Health Services and children's issues; I provide is a safe space to connect, recharge, and gain inspiration. The time is now, to morph into your full potential! I have one demand in therapy: "Let the monster out." I'm interested in the crevices of your mind. Show me where the cobwebs are because that's where your freedom is. I create a space that allows my clients to be honest, authentic, and real. The truth is that the most beneficial aspect of therapy is your ability to feel at home, so make yourself at home.

Engaging in the therapeutic process has rewards to learn about self and coping mechanisms to deal with life stressors. I am Dr. Shawnell Ware, LCSW-BACS, with over 30 years of experience in mental health working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. The treatment modalities used are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness. Engaging consumers in the therapeutic process allows one to teach skills how to manage stress effectively, improve communication, problem-solving, increase self-confidence and improve decision-making skills. Working together, we can achieve the ability to adapt to complex situations, change self-defeating behaviors, improve communication and manage emotions. My goal is to help consumers and scholars identify their strengths by utilizing problem-solving skills to foster growth and self-sufficiency. My mission is to advocate, empower and transform the lives of others to maintain self-worth, and live a wholesome life to their max potential. Confidentiality coupled with respect, compassion, empathy, and commitment are the benefits of working with a licensed clinical social worker. • Specializations: Crisis Intervention, Codependency, Divorce, Dual Diagnosis, Emotional Disturbance, Family Mediation, Grief, Life Coach, Parenting Skills, Peer Relations, Trauma, PTSD, Family Mediation, Couples Therapy, Self-Esteem Enhancement, Anger Management, Family Conflict, ADHD, Depression/Mood Disorder, Oppositional Defiant, Relationship Building, Conflict Resolution, and Social Skills Building. • Treatment Orientation: Family Systems, Client-Centered, Coaching, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) and Mindfulness. • Modality: Cognitive Behavior Therapy-Individual, Family and Group

I am licensed in Louisiana with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

I am licensed in Louisiana with 38 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & parenting issues. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

I am licensed in Louisiana with 21.5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, & motivation, grief, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will customize 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.