Best Addiction & Substance Abuse Counselors in Long Beach, WA

My pronouns are he/him. My approach to counseling is as a partner to walk with someone towards a place of healing. I utilize a trauma informed, person centered approach to help others realize their potential and work closely with them, on the path of their choosing, to help them achieve their goals. I find that it is vital to the counseling relationship that we honor the unique experiences of all individuals and recognize the strengths that have brought them this far. I have personal experience with addiction and recovery that I believe enhances my ability to connect with others who are struggling. I specialize in working with individuals who identify as part of the LGBTQUIA2S+ community, those who are experiencing issues related to addiction, those who have experienced varying degrees of trauma, and those seeking gender affirming counseling and support. My primary therapeutic approaches are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, EMDR, Solution Focused Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. I understand that treatment is not "one-size fits all" and believe that in order to achieve long lasting change we must develop a plan of care together.

I have proudly served as a licensed professional counselor since 1996. My journey began in community mental health, where I found great fulfillment in helping individuals. However, I was inspired to shift my focus to law enforcement, becoming a mental health professional dedicated to supporting both the community and our courageous officers. After an enriching 20-year career in a local law enforcement agency, I retired in 2019, leaving a legacy of crisis intervention and compassionate service. Throughout my career, I have stood by individuals and families during some of their most difficult moments. I have navigated complex issues such as mental illness, addiction, domestic violence, sexual crimes, child and elder abuse or neglect, and various tragic circumstances, including natural causes, suicide, homicide, and accidents. These experiences have reinforced three powerful truths: people possess remarkable resilience, they are deeply eager to be heard, and they remain open to exploring options when a foundation of respect and trust is established. My ideal client embodies these qualities, demonstrating a readiness for growth. I offer telehealth counseling, providing flexible options tailored to your needs. My extensive professional and personal history enables me to effectively support various individuals and families. Moreover, I have a particular passion for working with first responders, both sworn and civilian, and understanding the unique challenges they face. If you are seeking an open-minded, culturally competent therapist who thrives on creative solutions and innovative approaches, I encourage you to reach out with your questions or interest. I welcome the opportunity to engage in challenging, complex, and meaningful discussions. Thank you for considering me, and I look forward to the privilege of assisting you on your journey! Specialties: Addiction - Anxiety - Depression - Trauma - GLBTQ Treatment Approach: Brainspotting - Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) - Culturally Sensitive - Family Systems - Humanistic - Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) - Motivational Interviewing - Person-Centered - Positive Psychology - Strength-Based - Trauma Focused

I am licensed in Florida and Washington with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, & bipolar disorder. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.