What it's all about.....

Physical, emotional, and environmental wellness all factor into a person's mental health. Many issues contribute to challenges, including stressors such as loss, relationship conflicts, employment struggles and life transitions. In addition to these, some people struggle with issues from childhood or unhealthy patterns that sabotage their relationships. For many, there are also physical stressors such as chronic pain, diabetes, or a chemical imbalance.

Everyone's situation is unique and make every effort to understand all aspects of one's life in order to reach an accurate diagnosis and deliver highly personalized treatment that maximizes your changes of success.  I work directly with a family physician and other providers to help ensure success for your treatment.

I am a dedicated professional committed to providing quality mental health services and specialize in working with parents that are struggling with their newborn baby, their toddler, their pre-teen, or their teen. It is my overall goal to enhance the quality of life for individuals and families.  An assessment of your emotional, physical, spiritual, and life experience is provided in a caring environment.

The Approach

I work routinely with other healthcare providers. I am located in the office with Michelle Plaster, MD, a family physician. I may refer you to other providers, such as a psychiatrist. My approach to counseling centers on looking for physical, emotional, and social reasons for your area of concern. Sometimes this requires a referral back to your PCP to rule out underlying medical causes for your distress.  In counseling children, it is always important to hold family sessions or parenting sessions as well.

What you can expect...

A caring, detailed assessment of signs and symptoms that you are experiencing. Proper referral to a clinician experienced in helping you address "all" of your needs.  Mental and physical health are connected and if one part suffers, the other will too.

Things to Note.....

I have worked with children and adolescents for many years and I have also worked with adults/couples and families.  While I can treat anxiety, depression and other disorders, much of the focus during treatment will lean toward "wellness" and being sure that you are as healthy as you can be.  Additionally, children that have signs or symptoms of  ADHD will be thoroughly assessed by myself with referrals as necessary before assuming any one diagnosis.  Many childhood disorders are overdiagnosed and sometimes there needs to be a more intensive assessment.  For example, ADHD is commonly diagnosed in children with hyperactivity.  There can, however, be many causes for hyperactivity.

IMPORTANT NOTICE:  I do not conduct counseling sessions to address child custody cases nor do I specialize in criminal behavior.

I look forward to working with you.  Give me a call at 770-825-8124 today!

Families First

A heathy family unit is crucial to the formation of a successful society. 

Consider YOUR parenting habits:

1.  Do you feel that your child "knows" what he/she is supposed to do?  If so, are there clear guidelines for rules in your home or do you just "assume" that they understand what you expect?  Many parents comment:  "Oh....he/she knows what to do!"  Really?  Are you sure?  It is possible they are not clear at all and need guidance and leadership from you. 

2.  Does your child get adequate exercise or does he/she spend too much time playing on the X-Box, computers, or watching movies?

3.  Where do you gather for family meals?  You would score well if you answer:  "At the dinner table every night."  You would score low if you answer:  "We all eat in front of the television" or "we don't eat at the same time." 

4.  Do you spend quality time with your child or children on a regular basis?  If you are not sure what quality time means, think about one-on-one situations where you and your child can communicate about your day, their day, and feelings or concerns can be discussed - in an environment free of distractions!  Also, think about situations where you can have fun together, such as playing games, bowling, etc.

We can discuss this important issue in more detail in upcoming sessions.