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Welcome, I am Hayley Gerken and as a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, I approach the therapeutic process holistically, focusing on the mind, body, and spirit. My background as a counselor includes working with individual adults and teens, parents, survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, and other traumas, and group therapy. Each individual I walk alongside brings a unique story and set of experiences, and I strive to build a strong foundation of trust and mutual respect to allow that story to be told in a safe environment.
My approach
I am a strong advocate for client autonomy and building on the strengths you already have within you. The approach taken in therapy is based on the individual's need and may include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Strengths-Based approach, solution-focused approach, Trauma-Focused CBT, and more. Therapy is a collaborative experience and I look forward to getting to walk through this journey with you.
My focus
As I have worked with diverse populations in different settings I have found one of the greatest gifts of therapy is renewed hope and compassion for oneself. I have seen this be true for clients experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, homelessness, life transitions, unemployment, etc.
My communication style
I do my best to foster a safe, warm, and comfortable environment. Space is provided for clients to lead the direction of sessions while also focusing on the treatment goals developed collaboratively. Building trust and rapport is crucial for a safe therapeutic relationship and I welcome questions to ensure that the client/counselor relationship is a good fit.
My journey to mental healthcare
I have always known I wanted to help others, but I was not entirely sure how until my sophomore year of undergraduate school. I had been to therapy as a child and experienced my own mental health struggles throughout my life. When I came across the counseling degree I took the time to pray for discernment and it turns out it was the right fit for me. Getting to provide a safe space for individuals to express themselves freely and see the progress they make is the most rewarding experience.
My goals for you
I believe that SMART goals are extremely helpful for developing reasonable and relevant goals that clients are able to obtain. I take a collaborative approach to goal setting, providing client autonomy. Goals are created specific to each client's presenting issue(s).
My first session with you
During the first session, I enjoy getting to know clients' reasons for seeking counseling, their likes, and interests, any concerns or questions about myself or the therapeutic process, etc. It is time to focus on building trust and rapport and making sure we will work well together.
