Sharon Benner

We'll use a whole self approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I utilize supportive positive therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and EMDR most frequently. I welcome you to share whatever is in your thoughts, heart, and soul that keeps you from the life you wish.

My approach

I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy frequently but also use a lot of analogies to help people understand concepts or how a different way of approaching a problem might provide an answer or change they are seeking in their life. Discussing situations from a different viewpoint also can help people let go of expectations that may be hurting them. I recommend books, journaling, stress management techniques, holistic approach to health and well being, perhaps art or other hobbies that bring people calmness, joy, or relationships. I try to work with each individual and their strengths to overcome what blocks them from a path of happiness.

My focus

I work with Individuals, couples, and families to help unblock the path to being happy or joyful again. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. I have clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, grief, anger, LGBTQ, life decisions, parenting, marital struggles, extended family issues, and substance use problems.

My communication style

I attempt to gather information in an easy manner, not "drilling" questions so people can feel comfortable sharing. I inquire whether previous counseling has been attempted to understand prior experiences with therapy and how it was helpful or not. I am a hopeful, positive person and try to help others find their strengths, positivity and hope within them as well. As an experienced therapist, I recognize that people have had difficulty in their lives and do not diminish their story or not discuss the "hard parts" while we try to find ways to heal. I want persons to know that whatever they have experienced is not going to be minimized as "not as bad as others" because it affected them in it's own way.

My journey to mental healthcare

When I originally was planning my "life path", I thought I would be a physician to help people. However, during college I found the classes most interesting to me were about the mind and peoples behaviors. I decided to change paths from medicine and learn more in psychology and sociology to understand people better. Every day I am glad my path changed because I meet so many interesting persons and I learn many things from them as we work together. My life has been immensely enriched by all the people who have shared their stories and world with me.

My goals for you

I will ask what goals a client has for themselves for therapy and life so we can focus on achieving those goals.

My first session with you

I have been described by many clients as "laid back, nonjudgmental, easy to talk to" and I aspire to maintain that openness so it can help people feel less anxious about trying therapy which can be scary for some. I don't wear a "power suit" or have a couch to lay down like some people think from what they have seen in movies. I make effort to be comfortable and can speak with people about a wide range of subjects. I can think "outside the box" when we are problem solving issues so sometimes my ideas might sound different until a person understands the rationale behind the idea. And I tell my clients they can disagree with my ideas or suggestions giving them the power in sessions.