Janet Pace

I am a licensed Professional. I completed a BS degree in Psychology and Sociology from Georgia State University in 1998. I completed an MS degree in Psychology from the University of Phoenix, Atlanta, in 2009. I completed a MA degree in Community Counseling with a concentration in Marriage and Family from Argosy University in 2014. I work with a diverse population of Mental Health, Substance Abuse, and Dually diagnosed individuals aged 04 to 65+. My therapeutic counseling modality approach is based on the client's needs and concerns. My focus areas of practice include the following: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Substance Abuse/use Therapy, Marriage and Family Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, and Solution Therapy. I specialize in Individual and Group Therapy. Theoretically, I favor Gestalt, Adlerian, and Narrative practices. I am always open to other practices, such as Narrative and Art Theories.

My approach

My approach to providing therapy begins with an open heart and listening ears. My clients are always greeted with a happy tone and smiling face. If needed after check-in, I begin the start of the session with some relaxation techniques to enable feelings of calm and to dispel any feelings of anxiety and nervousness to assure for a peaceful and receptive journey. The most common theoretical approach I utilize is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy implemented with Gestalt's unique ways to engage the clients as they discuss and explore ways to change their viewpoints about themselves and their personal interactions. During this time, they can discover positive outcomes and realizations of interpersonal skills to enhance their decision-making skills through implemented cognitive role-playing and talk-based therapy. Mindfulness tools and therapy, along with meditation skills, will be utilized to help return clients back to a relaxed state before, during, and after each session when needed.

My focus

Typically I work with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, low-self esteem, couples and family issues, substance abuse/use, poor communication skills, self-harming behaviors, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, ADHD, and Obsessive Compulsive behaviors.

My communication style

I utilize soft tones and listening ears in a relaxed environment. I also utilize open-ended questions and answers to assure for understanding, clarity, and client engagement in the sessions. Respect and honesty are always utilized and encouraged by me and with my clients. An exploration of events is implemented with empathy, care, and concern for client needs. Patience and encouragement occur throughout each client session. To work with me is to develop a caring relationship of patience and care as we move together towards obtaining successful goals and positive outcomes.

My journey to mental healthcare

My journey began when I was a student nurse at GSU. I worked full-time at a local hospital in Atlanta. I worked in ICU and CCU and sometimes floated to Oncology. I became curious about how we developed all this critical illness and how some patients could not fight through it or just did not wish to fight. I knew I could make a positive impact, so I prayed and asked God for wisdom and understanding on how to do just that. I found my calling and my happiness in seeing individuals choosing to fight no matter the circumstances. I thought, What a blessing to be used like this!‚ I ankled down, set my sites on this wonderful gift, and made a great decision and choice to be that encourager of positive change. What a blessing to experience wonderful results!!!

My goals for you

Goal setting consists first of understanding what goals are requested and needed and what skills may be necessary to accomplish those goals. The client and I will agree to a committed agreement regarding the time and effort that is needed to invest in positive change and demonstrated communicated evidence of such positive outcomes. The therapist and client will set aside and establish a good working schedule that works best for both parties with respectful communication as we move together to conquer set goals.

My first session with you

During the first session, a brief introduction and a relaxing exploratory conversation of concerns and needs will occur. Privacy and sensitivity paperwork will be explored for concerns and answers to any questions. HIPAA expectations will be covered for questions and understanding as well. Once an agreement has been made and established, a relaxing conversation will proceed. A tentative schedule for moving forward will be set and explored for agreement. A safety plan will also be implemented and developed to assure clients understand that their safety is important and vital to assure for well-being. A big smile and encouragement, a big thank you for making the decision towards positive change, and a big congratulations on making the first step will be demonstrated as we make the journey official.