About

ABOUT ME (I've been told that I'm "different" and "straightforward")

Much gratitude from Mary Brahm, for checking out my profile. I am a seasoned Licensed Counselor who has experience in, Behavioral Health, and substance use disorders. My personal and professional experience has blessed me to travel and live around the world. What I quickly learned from the diverse populations I worked with, is that flexibility is the key to change and success. I use an “eclectic “approach, “meeting you where you are at”, while encouraging you to reach your potential. I believe that you are ready to improve the quality of your life, and know, I am here to help increase your desire and skills for internal and external fulfillment. I would be remiss, if I didn’t thank all my clients for teaching me at least one lesson.

Working with servicemen, civilian personnel, retirees, and family members, for half of my career, has given me experience with issues for this special population. As a Marine Corps veteran, I certainly can relate to struggles with veterans. As a Civilian Counselor, I have been successful in Community Mental Health and as a Senior Therapist. I first look to develop trust with those I work with, and I believe that change will take place with both hard work and pleasure.

In addition to being licensed as a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor from Illinois, I am a Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor with supervisor status and a Licensed Social Worker from Ohio. Post Graduate Relevant Coursework, Marriage, and Family Course Work. My additional interests expanded my knowledge and experience in obtaining the following certifications: Private Practice Certified Life Coach, 2013, Certified Telehealth Therapist 2019, Certified Hypnotherapist 2004, and Neuro-Linguist Programming (NLP) 2013.

SPECIALTIES:
Dual Diagnosis
Addictions, Substance Use, Chronic Relapse, Recovery After Care with a variety of recovery programs, 12 Step Spirituality Counseling, Co-Dependency
Coping with life changes
Crisis Management and implemented in High School Shooting in OH
Extensive Diversity training and working with cultures from around the world
Sexual Assault Counselor, Prevention and Response Program Experience
Motivation, Building Self-Esteem

Also experienced in:
Providing critical interventions, identifying triggers and intense feelings of personal distress including anxiety, depression, anger, panic and hopelessness or significant life changes for individuals and families.
Conducting goal-oriented psychotherapy treatment, assisting both individuals and couples in changing patterns of thinking or behavior that promotes difficulties ranging from relationship problems.

Coordinating and supervise psychotherapeutic interventions, educating clients on supplemental mental health services to improve overall quality of life.
Delivered comprehensive therapeutic interventions for a diverse population of clients, utilizing biopsychosocial therapy to support wellness and aid clients in their journey to recovery. Leveraged a keen understanding of psychological, physical health and social effects of mental illness to promote holistic evidence-based practices.

Individual, Adolescents, Adults, Couples, Family, Multi-Family Groups, Severely Mentally Ill, Sex Offender and Group Counseling

Clinical approaches:
Authentic and solutions-oriented Counselor with a focus on integrated care and the use of evidence-based treatments to holistically address mental health issues including crisis, trauma, mental health disorders, substance abuse intervention, grief and loss and conflict resolution. Demonstrate a humanistic approach, leveraging experience as a veteran with 20 years of service, to encourage personal development as a way of learning skills and coping abilities needed to deal with life changing events.

Modalities to offer:
Video…... Live Chat…... Messaging…... Phone…...

LICENSING:
LPC # 1800006589 (Expires 2025-03-12)