Welcome to My Blog!
I just recently opened my new online counseling business. Just like TeleHealth options for doctors and patients, TeleMental Health is still in the initial growing stages. I have to say, it was a great professional decision for me! I’m also a first-time blogger! I’d love to tell you a little about myself, my business and my plan for this blog.
A Little About Me
I’m been a licensed professional counselor in the state of Missouri since 2008. I also hold an international credential for mental health and substance disorders treatment. I’m also currently finishing my board certification in TeleMental Health.
I’ve been working full time in the mental health and substance treatment field since 2001. I’ve had the opportunity to work in multiple places to help me learn and grow as a counselor. Some of those places include: several large community mental health organizations, a hospital, a public middle school and several colleges and universities. I’ve enjoyed my experiences at every site.
I graduated from the University of Missouri with a B.S. in Human Development and Family Studies. I then went on and received my M.S. in Marriage and Family Therapy from Friends University. I was fortunate to do several internships with several community mental health sites as well as a drug treatment facility.
In addition to working as a mental health professional, I worked as an adjunct faculty member at a local college from June 2010 to December 2018. I’ve had the opportunity to teach many different courses including: ethics, group therapy, advanced family therapy, practicum classes and advanced couples’ therapy. One of the most exciting things I continue to do is supervise students and PLPC’s. I love to help learning professionals and new counselors grow into licensed counseling professionals. They bring so much enthusiasm to this ever-changing profession.
Believe it or not, I do have time to have fun! I have two kids-a teen and preteen, so I spend a lot of time driving to various events. I enjoy coaching recreation league softball, watching baseball, cheering for the St. Louis Cardinals, watching Tampa Bay football, and playing with my dog Yadi.
Why Did I Transition to Online Counseling?
If you had met me ten years ago I would’ve told you “no way, not in a million years would you find me doing online counseling.” Fast forward to today, and I’ve gone completely online.
Online counseling is most definitely different than meeting in person, but it has many benefits. What I enjoy most is offering services to clients who would’ve otherwise not received care. Not only are they able to have direct access to a counselor, but it’s relatively quick and easy to schedule online. There’s a lot less planning that goes into meetings and the hours are very flexible. You can often find me in session as late as 9:00 at night!
While there are many advantages, some clients still have concerns. I often have these discussions with clients in the first session. Some concerns I address include: how to maintain confidentiality online, what to do in an emergency situation, how to trust the counseling platform and how I manage confidentiality as an offsite counselor.
My Plan for This Blog
As I continue to plan this blog, I’d enjoying hearing from you the reader. What interests you? Some topics I will be discussing in biweekly blogs include: couples relationship tips, talking with your preteens about various topics, and curbing early adulthood woes.
I’m also going to doing a Monthly Book Review. I enjoy reading various books about topics to enhance how I work with my clients. Each month I will be posting an informal review of my thoughts about the book, what I liked about the book, and how I would use this information in my therapy sessions. If you have book suggestions feel free to email me, I’d be glad to consider your book.
Check back regularly for the next blog update. Have a happy, healthy day! --Amanda