Seaford Counseling Services

For me, owning a private practice represents a longtime dream come true! Helping others brings me such joy and fulfillment; and I feel so blessed that my career allows me to do so despite becoming disabled. While I may no longer be able to make a casserole or babysit for a friend in need, I can absolutely offer a listening ear and a trained eye for everything from situational stressors to major psychological disorders.

I opened Seaford Counseling Services in the Fall of 2017, and it is truly my professional pride and joy. After ten years as a stay-at-home parent, I worried that I would not find the purpose or the joy that full -time parenting provided. So imagine my surprise when I found that going back to work was the most exhilarating endeavor of my adult life! Seven years in, I am still the most fulfilled employee I know! I am honored each and every time a client opens up and trusts me with their innermost thoughts and feelings.

Philosophy of Counseling

My educational background and theoretical orientation lead me to believe that each person (given optimal circumstances) is capable of becoming their most authentic and actualized self. From this "humanistic" perspective, the therapist only needs to actively listen, seek to understand, and accept the client - to provide unconditional positive regard.

Sound simple? It is.

Sound easy? Far from it!

Working with a therapist requires bravery, an open mind, and a trusting heart. The therapeutic relationship between counselor and client is of utmost importance. It is from there that the real "work" of counseling both begins and succeeds.

As a counselor, my own experience with trauma and daily physical challenges serve as a unique strength for me. These personal struggles give me compassion for and insight into many of the psychological issues that my clients face each day. Much like a recovering addict makes for an excellent substance abuse counselor, someone who has faced enormous obstacles like mine can gain instant credibility with clients who are facing the largest and most daunting problems yet.

Many counselors are asked about their theoretical orientation, and it is a favorite of mine to answer. It was once believed that a therapist should keep on a facade of sorts. In this mentality, the therapist plays the role of "expert." He or she sits across a desk from the client and never loses their professional mask. Instead, this counselor sits above all other humans; advising all others in how to best do this thing called life.

In my opinion, the above mentality misses the point entirely! I will not pretend to do, think, feel, or be any better than the other humans(s) in the room. In my office, you will not find any "Rasputin"-looking character. In contrast, you will only find "little old me!" I'll be just as likely to offer a different perspective about your life situation as a self-deprecating and humorous example of myself trying to live out said perspective.

I love to use humor as a bridge to connection and as a means to calming the anxiety that many clients bring to counseling. And I often use a Christian lens when helping a client through difficult life events and transitions. I call myself a Christian Counselor in that I am a Christian and I am a counselor. In many ways, it is impossible to separate the two. However, I am not one to typically throw a Bible passage or verse at you, unless, of course, that is helpful to you. How much I use my faith in counseling sessions runs the gamut from zero discussion or even mention of faith to actually praying with clients at the start or end of sessions. In this, I will follow your lead: if you want to mention faith as a strength for you and your ability to perceive and process issues in your life. Please let me know about your comfort level with talk of religion, faith and spirituality.

Office located at:

119 South Trade Street, Suite 107 Matthews, NC 28104