Amber Russell

My communication style

My style is warm, empathic, and grounded, with a touch of humor. I try not to take myself so seriously and find that life provides ample opportunities for humility development.

My journey to mental healthcare

I grew up as the youngest child of a Vietnam Veteran father (PTSD) and a mother with Major Depressive Disorder. Throughout my childhood my mother was hospitalized many times. I remember feeling there was no hope for her. She committed suicide when I was 20. When I became a therapist I promised to always leave my clients and families with hope.

My goals for you

At the end of every session of practicing different skills/strategies that are relevant to a client's goals, I always ask clients "what strategy would you like to work on before our next session?" When we meet again, I check in if they were able to follow through with that strategy and if we need to modify it in order to achieve success.

Our first session

I understand the first session is seeing if I would be a good fit for you. I try to make it as painless as possible for those who have never tried therapy before and try to keep the first session relaxed. If you are afraid of awkward silences, that wont be the case here (unless you want it).

I identify as...

• Female
• Caucasian or White
• Agnostic, Buddhist, Christian, Non-denominational, Pagan, Spiritual, Taoist, Unitarian Universalism