About

Hello! My name is Cleaster Snerling-Woodward, and I am glad you are here. I am licensed as a professional counselor within the states of Maryland and Michigan. I graduated from Spring Arbor University and enjoyed my undergraduate studies at Calvin College. I have experience working with various serious mental illnesses including but not limited to depressive and anxiety disorders. I have served in both outpatient and inpatient settings. My education and past ten years of working with Clients has taught me that change, healing and growth are attainable. Life may seem dark and lonely and problems insurmountable but with proper support and the will to take steps in your preferred direction, no matter how big, progress is inevitable. As a professional counselor, I work with adults from all walks of life to help others find meaning and purpose. This starts with a rapport building phase that emphasizes understanding my clients' intersecting identities, symptoms, and goals. Because of the inherent diversity of human experience, I believe effective treatment begins with a thorough understanding of where each person is and what has led to this point in their life.

As I work to truly understand the people I serve, my interventions are communicated through a sound working relationship and emotional validation. For some this involves creating actions plans and teaching specific coping skills. For others, it takes the form of offering support and acceptance. Specifically, I take a person - centered approach while showing empathy and diligently working to create a non - judgmental and safe working environment. I genuinely care about your smallest and largest concerns and achievements. Additionally, I see value in the Cognitive Behavioral therapeutic approach, and it has been a passion and interest for me. There is no one size fits all approach to mental health. Regardless of your specific goals, you do not have to walk this path alone. Remember, you are not alone. You are not to blame. And with treatment, you can feel better. Let's work to together to create your individual path to healing.