My name is Jessica Baecker and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor. I utilize a person-centered approach in counseling and work with individuals who are experiencing both acute and chronic mental health concerns, as well as day to day difficulties with life transitions, and those experiencing grief and loss.
My approach
My counseling approach is eclectic, as I use a variety of approaches based on my client's needs. I especially like using mindfulness based and cognitive behavioral approaches.
My focus
I have various work experiences including working with federal inmates, on an inpatient psychiatric unit, and in a community mental health agency setting. I've been working in private practice for the last two years. I especially enjoy working with individuals who experience chronic anxiety and depression, self-limiting beliefs, and self-harming behavior and/or suicidal ideation.
My communication style
My clients often share that they feel very comfortable opening up to me, as I am accepting and nonjudgmental. I enjoy getting to know my clients as individuals and often use humor to help clients feel more relaxed.
My journey to mental healthcare
After earning my bachelor’s degree in psychology, I found myself working in veterinary medicine while working toward my Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. My passion for counseling and educating others about the importance of mental health was born from my own experiences and those of my family.
My goals for you
Although I can help clients hone in on specific short- and long-term goals they are working toward, I always let clients take the lead when setting goals. Every person is unique and what you want to focus on is the most important thing.
My first session with you
During our first session I invite you to share with me what brought you to counseling, but I always have lots of questions that will help you open up if you're feeling nervous or unsure what to share. I recommend you write down some bullet points for your first session so we don't miss anything. Just remember it's not possible to get to know a person's life and personality in one session, so getting to know each other will be an ongoing process.