My Work in the Texas Prison System:

My journey within the Texas prison system was an invaluable experience that shaped my approach to therapy in many ways. I had the privilege of serving as both a psychoeducation provider and a therapist within a specialized program for individuals convicted of sex offenses. This intensive nine-month-long program consisted of both educational classes and intensive group and individual therapy, both of which I actively contributed to throughout my 7 year career with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice Sex Offender Treatment Program.

During my initial years in the program, while pursuing my Master’s degree, I dedicated my time to teaching comprehensive psychoeducational curriculum. This experience honed my communication skills and allowed me to effectively translate complex therapeutic concepts into easily digestible information for participants. Witnessing their struggles and the positive impact of the educational component firsthand solidified my commitment to clear, concise, and culturally sensitive communication in my therapeutic practice.

Following the completion of my degree and licensure, I transitioned into the role of therapist and treatment provider within the program. This phase allowed me to apply the knowledge to provide individual and group therapy grounded in evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Witnessing the effectiveness of CBT in helping individuals break free from destructive behavior patterns and develop healthier coping mechanisms, solidified my belief in the power of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and established it as a cornerstone of my therapeutic approach.

It is important to note that my experience within the prison system was solely within the context of a specialized program focusing on sex offense rehabilitation. My role did not involve working with the general prison population, and I am not currently offering services related to sex offender treatment in my private practice. However, the skills and knowledge gained during this pivotal period have significantly shaped my therapeutic approach and instilled in me a deep appreciation for the importance of individualized care, cultural sensitivity, and evidence-based practices.

My Work in Chronic Pain Management:

For 7 years I worked as the primary mental health therapist and program coordinator for an intensive program designed for pain management for individuals with chronic pain, often secondary to a work related injury and/or delayed recovery. My work with individuals managing chronic pain was a transformative experience. It revealed the deep connection between physical and emotional well-being. Witnessing their remarkable resilience in the face of daily discomfort inspired me, and it continues to inform my approach to therapy with all clients.

Perhaps the most valuable lesson I learned was the importance of personalization. Every individual experiences chronic pain differently, and a “one-size-fits-all” approach simply doesn’t work. This experience honed my ability to collaborate with clients to develop individualized strategies for coping with both physical and emotional discomfort.

Through this work, I also gained a profound understanding of how intertwined physical and emotional well-being are. Chronic pain can significantly impact mood, energy levels, and overall quality of life. This insight spurred me to integrate emotional and psychological support into my pain management approach.

Whether helping individuals develop coping mechanisms for emotional distress, manage stress, or cultivate hope, my goal was to empower them to navigate their challenges and strive for a better quality of life. The lessons learned from this experience have enriched my understanding of human resilience, the importance of individualized care, and the holistic approach to well-being, which I believe is crucial for overall health and happiness.

My Work in Private Practice:

My transition to private practice coincided with a pivotal moment in mental health history. Not only did this allow me to expand my expertise by working with a wider range of conditions, but it also unfolded during a period of immense public need. The COVID-19 pandemic triggered a surge in anxiety, depression, and fear-avoidant behaviors, highlighting the critical role of accessible mental health care. Fortunately, this period also witnessed a growing societal acceptance of seeking help, breaking down the stigma that has long surrounded mental health. These factors combined to skyrocket my experience in the private sector, allowing me to provide individual counseling for a vast array of concerns.

This shift also propelled me into the world of telehealth, offering remote therapy services through video platforms. This technology not only expanded my reach but also reduced barriers to access for clients facing geographical limitations or scheduling challenges. However, implementing telehealth presented its own set of challenges. This experience has been invaluable in refining my skills to navigate the unique dynamics of online therapy and ensure effective care despite the physical distance. As telehealth continues to reshape the landscape of mental health care, I’m well-equipped to provide high-quality support through this convenient and accessible platform.

While I’m dedicated to my work, I also value the importance of a fulfilling personal life. Spending quality time with my teenage son and soaking up the energy of live music are just a few things that keep me grounded. Laughter is also essential. Whether it’s a comedy show or simply finding the humor in everyday life, I believe in embracing the lighter side.

Ultimately, I know life can be tough, and I’m here to help you find the silver lining. Together, we can navigate your challenges, cultivate your strengths, and unlock the path towards a brighter future.