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Hi, my name is Bill Middleton, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in California and Illinois, I am also an ordained Christian minister. I am currently based in Carlsbad, California via tele-heath and have spent the last 30 years counseling Marines, sailors, and military families around the world. I work with all ages dealing with stress, grief, family communication, and faith issues. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and other modes to assist in life's challenges.
My approach
My approach to therapy begins with compassionate listening to everything that is on the mind and in the heart of the person seeking to be heard. We will carefully walk through what brings them to counseling at this time and I'll work to gain their trust to address both joys and concerns in their daily experiences. All thoughts and feelings are important to hear and understand.
My focus
I possess decades of experience working with young adults, married couples, and individuals working in high-stress environments. I realize it often takes a great deal of courage to reach out and my focus is to assure my clients of the benefits of seeking help.
My communication style
My goal is to bring an open and thoughtful listening method to every encounter. I want to put clients at ease so they feel free to share whatever is bothering them. That freedom requires judgment-free communication and that is always my goal. There have been professional periods where I was the sole counselor for over 1,000 military personnel on ships at sea or in a remote location, I needed to meet people where they were at, always.
My journey to mental healthcare
My path to becoming a therapist began with a call to Christian ministry. I chose a dual Master's degree program built on the strengths of servant leadership in ministry and the clinical skills of social work. Both degrees made me a well-trained and extremely versatile counselor and leader.
My goals for you
I like to understand goals in three phases, past, present, and future. First, we seek to understand the past and how that is impacting your current thoughts and feelings. Then we work in the present to address the stress and situation which is causing discomfort. Finally, we set goals for the future to enhance your well-being.
My first session with you
My first question is always, what brought you here today? I listen carefully then reflect back to ensure we understand each other. Careful listening and reflection will help us build a therapeutic relationship as you share your thoughts and feelings. We will make a plan and begin addressing goals for the future.
