Country Crossroads Counseling

 

Hi, I am thankful you have taken a moment to learn more about Country Crossroads Counseling and me. I hope that you will find us to be a safe and peaceful place to guide you through your journey in becoming your best self. I am here to listen, to encourage and to support you along the way.  

 

I am the director of our Country Crossroads Critters program that allows our therapists to combine their expertise in mental health and a deep passion for animal therapy to help clients and community members alike. We are dedicated to creating a therapeutic environment where individuals can connect with animals, enhancing their emotional well-being. This program is designed to foster skills like emotional regulation, self-awareness, and self-confidence through meaningful, hands-on interactions with the program’s beloved critters. We are hoping that this program offers a welcoming space for clients of all ages to grow, heal, and learn valuable life skills alongside their animal companions.

 

I received my elementary and early childhood education degree in 2000. I then pursued a Master's degree in counseling from the University of Central Missouri which I completed in 2018. As a school counselor I have had the opportunity to lead both group and individual sessions. I use techniques such as play and sand therapy to help children process through some of their experiences and challenges. I have participated in trauma informed training and am passionate about helping children, teens and adults understand the complex impact that trauma can cause in their lives as well as teach coping skills that can help individuals manage their feelings and behaviors.

 

It is my goal to help others find the strength and courage within themselves to solve their problems. Theory approaches such as Solution Focused and Cognitive Behavioral help an individual focus on their present and future circumstances while setting goals instead of finding themselves stuck in the past. I believe in working with people to help them live in the moment while making the best of it.

 

On a personal level, I am married with two teenage boys. We spend our time as a family watching movies, playing games and attending lots of their sporting events. If I can find some quiet time to myself, I try to read, listen to music or spend time at the gym.