Karissa Parker

Karissa Parker is a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in Texas with 6 years of experience providing mental health services to adults and children. She is also worked as a school guidance counselor and administrator. Karissa's approach to therapy is warm and interactive, using cognitive-behavioral counseling. She believes in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and tailors her dialog and treatment plan to meet each client's unique and specific needs.

My approach

Karissa's therapeutic approach is through the utilization of Cognitive Behavioral therapy. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a therapeutic approach that focuses on the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. In CBT, the therapist works with the client to identify negative or distorted thoughts and beliefs that may be contributing to their emotional distress or problematic behaviors. Karissa then helps the client to challenge and reframe these thoughts and beliefs, replacing them with more positive and realistic ones. CBT is a structured and goal-oriented approach that typically involves homework assignments and active participation from the client. The therapist and client work together to develop specific strategies and skills for managing symptoms and achieving the client's goals. CBT has been shown to be effective in treating a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression and anxiety.

My focus

Karissa's focus areas of practice include depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, and career challenges through using cognitive behavioral therapy. She has a deep understanding of the challenges that individuals and families face in today's world and is passionate about helping her clients achieve their goals and live their best lives. Karissa provides a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their thoughts and feelings, gain insight into their behaviors, and develop new skills and strategies for coping with life's challenges.

My communication style

Karissa has a passionate calm communication style that involves expressing empathy, warmth, and understanding while maintaining a sense of calm and composure. She speaks in a soothing and reassuring tone, conveying a sense of safety and trust. She listens actively and attentively, validating the client's feelings and experiences. Karissa believes in a communication style also involves being fully present in the moment, focusing on the client's needs and concerns. She may use mindfulness techniques to help the client stay grounded and centered and to promote a sense of relaxation and well-being. Overall, Karissa's communication style is characterized by a deep commitment to helping the clients achieve their goals while creating a safe and supportive environment for healing and growth.

My journey to mental healthcare

Karissa's experience working as a special education teacher in a school district inspired her to pursue a career as a mental health therapist. Through her work, she developed a deep appreciation for the importance of mental health and the impact it has on individuals and their families. Karissa's fascination with human behavior and desire to understand the complexities of the human mind further fueled her passion for the field. She recognized the power of therapy to help individuals overcome challenges and achieve their goals and was eager to make a positive difference in people's lives.

My goals for you

Karissa believes that goal setting is an important part of therapy, as it helps clients to identify what they want to achieve and provides a roadmap for their progress. In therapy, goal setting typically involves a collaborative process between herself and the client. The goals may be short-term or long-term and may focus on a wide range of areas, such as improving relationships, managing symptoms of anxiety or depression, or developing new coping skills. Once the goals have been identified, Karissa and the client work together to develop a plan for achieving them. This may involve breaking down the goals into smaller, more manageable steps, and identifying potential obstacles or challenges that may arise. Overall, she utilizes goal setting in therapy as a collaborative and empowering process that helps clients to take an active role in their own healing and growth.

My first session with you

The first counseling session is a chance for Karissa and the client to establish a rapport and begin to build a therapeutic relationship. The therapist will work with the client to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to their specific needs and concerns.