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As a native Georgian, I strive to learn about, be involved in, and strengthen my community. Getting to know you and understanding your values and worldview are not only my craft, but my passion. I chose Social Work because of the emphasis on building from strengths you already have, and the understanding of harmony between the self and systems in which we function. My holistic approach to helping teens and adults is rooted in seeing and working with each person as, first and foremost, a human being, rather than a problem to be fixed. I truly believe that harmony or balance with your complete self (mind, body, emotion, and spirit) is what helps you reach a state of contentment and a healthy connection with self and others. Who you are at your core (Self) is in charge. Sometimes, other parts of you become overreactive, and take over. By creating harmony among your internal system, you're better equipped to navigate the external system that is your lived experience.

 

As one area of focus, my work with adolescent and adult men is from a safe, non-judgmental approach to strengthen a healthy relationship with masculinity and identity. Men are more than stoicism, anger, responsibilities, and needs for success. We have a spectrum of emotion, and face challenges navigating vulnerability, like anyone else; however, this experience may present or look different in men. Creating time and space to grow and develop your complete self will not only bring enrichment to your life, but to others around you. Our work, together, may include navigating stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, identity, or relationship challenges. 

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Though men's health is one area of focus for me, I am honored to work with all genders in identifying strengths, and learning to use those strengths as aids in navigating obstacles that life presents. My training and experience in various modalities and theoretical constructs allows me to tailor our work to best meet your needs. There are many therapists in Decatur and the Atlanta area, and I understand finding a good fit in a therapist is crucial to a healthy therapeutic relationship. That's why I offer a free phone consultation up to 15 minutes for people interested in working with me. Let's discuss your path for growth and development  (404) 491-7751 ext 1.

 

My clinical work is largely influenced by my personal practices of mindfulness, meditation, Aikido, and connection to the natural world. I firmly believe that if I bring mindfulness and meditation into the therapy space, I must maintain my own personal practice; therefore, I do. Additionally, the principals of Aikido are easily noticed in my therapeutic approach. Though I provide no instruction on self-defense or specific Aikido skill for my clients, I embrace and incorporate a heightened sense of awareness and harmony between mind, body, and spirit (“ki”). We use the energy of external stressors as momentum to move through it, rather than take an exhaustive stance to fight against it, thereby empowering you through consciousness, confidence, and competence. So much research is currently being done on the benefits in our innate connection with nature, and the consequences of severing/minimizing this connection. I encourage a healthy relationship with the "more than human world" as you learn to navigate discomfort, rather than avoid it.

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I also offer quality and affordable clinical supervision for associate licensed/master's level social workers pursuing clinical licensure (LCSW). Quality supervision plays a crucial role in becoming an exceptional clinician. We not only review clinical modalities, but focus on how you as a person show up for and with your clients. 

 

Special Focus

 

Mindfully navigating stress.

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Therapy for MEN- growth and development of self and relationships.

 

Recovering from TRAUMA and negative life-changing experiences.

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Reprocessing ANGER - experiencing and expressing powerful emotions and

vulnerability in a healthy way.

 

 

Client Focus

 

Adults and Adolescents

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Psychotherapy, Consulting (personal, entrepreneurial, clinical),

Mindfulness Instruction, Mindful Nature Connection,

Healthy Identities for men

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Groups:

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Healthier Humans through Mindfulness

Dates TBD

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New & Expecting Fathers

Coming September 2023 (6-week group)

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Retreats:

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Nature's Calling: A Mindful Outdoor Adventure for Men

October 6-8, 2023  -  Suches, GA

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Back to the Roots: A Mindful Outdoor Retreat for Men

April 21-23, 2023  -  Suches, GA

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Seasons of Resilience: Building egostrength, distress tolerance, and 

confidence, through mindfulness and self-compassion

Atlanta, GA

No dates currently scheduled

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Credentials

 

Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Georgia  -  CSW004964

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Master of Social Work - The University of Georgia

Athens, GA     l      2010 

 

Bachelor of Science in Psychology - The University of Georgia

Athens, GA      l      2007

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Certified Mindfulness-Informed Professional

Evergreen Certifications 

 

Certified Clinical Trauma Professional

Evergreen Certifications

 

Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist - The Anxiety and Stress Management Institute &

National Board for Certified Clinical Hypnotherapists 

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Certified Level 1 Kripalu Mindful Outdoor Guide

Kripalu School of Mindful Outdoor Leadership

 

Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) Certificate

Richard Sears, PsyD - Professional Education Systems Institute

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Trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS)

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Traumatic Stress Studies Certificate

The Trauma Center at JRI - Boston, MA

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Certified in Wilderness First Aid

Survival Med, Affiliate of Wilderness Medical Society

 

Trained in Riso-Hudson Enneagram Type Indicator: The Enneagram in Relationships.

The Enneagram Institute

 

Professional Acknowledgements

 

Canvas Rebel

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Shoutout Atlanta

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Voyage ATL Magazine: Inspiring Stories series

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Best of Psychotherapy Hall of Fame (6 consecutive years)

 

 

Professional Affiliations

 

MANLĒ (Manifesting a New Lived Experience)

Founder, CEO

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Round Table Discussions (recurring series about roles and identities of present-day men)

Co-host

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Kripalu School for Outdoor Leadership

Level 1 Graduate

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National Board for Certified Clinical Hypnotherapists

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Men's Health Network

Board of Advisers

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Recurring guest on One Small Bite with David Orozco (podcast)​

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Contributing writer for Psych Central

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Intown Therapist Network-Abundance Collective

 

Georgia Society for Clinical Social Workers

Former Legislative Committee Co-Chair and board member

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FEI Behavioral Health Services

Speaker, Trainer: Mindfulness & Stress Management

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Out-of-network for all Insurance Plans

Some or all of my fee may be covered by your insurance as out-of-network. For verification of benefits, please call the number on your insurance card to ask about coverage.