Lisa McIntosh

My name is Lisa McIntosh, LPC License #0701008421. I have more than 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. My holistic approach focuses on the individual's emotional, psychological, and social well-being. I also focus on rapport building, goal setting, and implementing evidence-based treatment to help individuals and families identify and change their troubling emotions, thoughts, and behaviors.

My approach

My most common theoretical approaches are Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) for anxiety and depression, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for trauma, Motivational Interviewing (MI) for alcohol and/or drug dependence, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for mood disorders and suicidal ideation.

My focus

My typical clients include adults experiencing anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder/grief, alcohol and/or drug dependence, mood disorders, and suicidal ideation. In addition, I help children experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorder, self-harm behaviors, conduct disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.

My communication style

I create an optimistic and positive tone and a welcoming environment. Clients will feel safe and respected while building rapport and trust.

My journey to mental healthcare

When I began my college journey, I majored in business administration. However, I quickly realized that it was not my niche. I discovered that I'd rather interact with and help people. Therefore, I switched my degree program to counseling. Upon earning my undergrad degree and working as a Qualified Mental Health Professional, I realized that my roles were limited. I wanted to do more to help people with mental health diagnoses. I pursued and successfully earned my master's degree and then became a Licensed Professional Counselor. Today, I truly enjoy my work. It is very rewarding to help individuals become successful at working on their emotions, managing their negative thoughts, and improving their behaviors.

My goals for you

I start by asking about their purpose for starting therapy and their overall therapy goal(s). I explain and assist with creating goals that are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound.

My first session with you

During the initial therapy session clients should expect to answer lots of personal questions about their purpose for starting therapy, overall therapy goal(s), past and current experiences, symptoms, coping strategies, and more. Clients may unearth many things their brain has worked hard to bury such as painful feelings and memories.