L I N D A

Personally

I always wanted to be a counselor, but took a long and winding path to get there. For the first 15-20 years of my adulthood, I lived by “shoulds” and inaccurate beliefs about relationships. I got married, had two cute kids, a successful career as a paralegal, and a nice home. Things looked good from the outside. However, on the inside it was different. I was trying hard to do the things I thought I was supposed to do, including pleasing other people and feeling responsible for their emotions and behaviors, being “perfect” in my work, avoiding conflict at all costs, and denying my own needs. But I grew increasingly frustrated, resentful, and unhappy.

By my late 30’s I was so angry I wanted to explode (although still smiling on the outside). I knew things had to change. And so began my journey of growth and healing, which continues to this day. I reached out for help. Over the years I have worked with several therapists, attended intensive therapy programs, and participated in support groups. The result of all this has been to reshape my life in many ways. One of these was to change my career, to pursue my dream of becoming a therapist. I went back to school in my 40’s to do just that, and have never once regretted that decision.

I grew up in Kansas, lived in Nashville for 47 years, then moved to Louisiana in 2021. My two children are now adults, and connecting with them is a source of meaning and joy in my life. My hobbies include hiking and singing in choral groups. And in 2021 I realized the dream of becoming a grandmother, part of my life worth living!

Professionally

I hold a Master’s Degree in Counseling from Trevecca Nazarene University. I have been in practice since 2003. I was licensed by the State of Tennessee as a Licensed Professional Counselor in 2005 (license #1706). I hold the MHSP (mental health service provider) designation, meaning I have training which qualifies me to diagnose mental illnesses. In Tennessee I also hold the Approved Supervisor designation, which allows me to supervise therapists working towards LPC licensure. In 2021 I received my Licensed Professional Counselor license in the State of Louisiana (license #8816). And in 2024 I became registered as a Professional Counselor Telehealth Provider for the State of South Carolina (credential #1207). I am currently able to see clients in the states of TN, LA, and SC.

I began my therapy career doing counseling in the Tennessee state incarceration facilities for juveniles, from 2003 through 2011. After this I worked in a residential treatment center, from 2012 until 2018. My private practice began in July, 2018. I belong to professional organizations including the American Counseling Association, the Tennessee Licensed Professional Counselor Association, and the Louisiana Counseling Association.

My first intensive training in DBT was in 2005, and I have completed multiple trainings since that time. I became enthused about DBT for many reasons, but primarily because I quickly learned it offered real help to clients with significant difficulties. Since my first training I have conducted countless individual DBT sessions and skills training groups, and I’m still enthused.