I have always known that I wanted to help people. Throughout my life, my experiences, relationships, and curiosity about people have shaped my path toward social work and counseling. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Human-Animal Studies with an emphasis in Animal-Assisted Therapy and my Master’s degree in Social Work. These experiences have given me a unique perspective on the many ways therapy can support people through different seasons of life.

 

I believe therapy should be personal. There is no one-size-fits-all approach, so I draw from a variety of therapeutic modalities and tailor our work to your individual needs, personality, and goals. Some of the approaches I enjoy incorporating include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Person-Centered Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). I have experience working with tweens, teens, and adults, both individually and in groups.

 

I believe everyone can benefit from having a space where they can be truly heard. Life can be complicated, and sometimes we need someone to help us slow down, make sense of what we are experiencing, and figure out what comes next. My goal is to help you work through challenges, better understand yourself and your patterns, and create meaningful change in your life.

 

I also understand that starting therapy can feel intimidating. You may wonder, “Is this the right therapist for me? Will we connect? Will I actually feel comfortable talking to this person?” Those are completely understandable questions. I strive to create a warm, welcoming, and nonjudgmental environment where you can show up as yourself and feel heard, respected, and accepted.

 

One way I think about therapy is that you are the driver of your own journey. You know yourself and your life better than anyone else, and ultimately, you get to decide where you want to go. I see my role as sitting in the passenger seat, helping you navigate unexpected turns, offering a different perspective when you need one, and supporting you as you work toward the destinations that are meaningful to you.

 

But being in the passenger seat doesn't mean I will simply sit quietly and let you do all the navigating. Sometimes we need someone to gently challenge us, point out patterns we may not recognize, or give us a little push when we feel stuck. I believe therapy can be both a safe place to feel supported and a space where we can have honest conversations that help you move forward.

 

My approach to therapy is conversational, genuine, and relationship-focused. I value the knowledge and skills I bring as a therapist, but I don't believe therapy needs to feel clinical or impersonal. I want our work together to feel collaborative and authentic, with room for humor, curiosity, reflection, and growth. Most importantly, I want you to feel like you have a therapist who is genuinely in your corner as you work toward the life you want to create.

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Specialities:

 

Ages 12+, Depression, Anxiety, Adolescent Issues, Stress, ADHD, Autism, Trauma, Coping Skills, Emotional Regulation, Emotional/Behavioral Concerns, Life Transitions, Peer Relationships, Relationship Issues, Self-Esteem, Executive Functioning, Sensory Issues, Neurodivergence, Social Skills, School/Academic Stress, Adjustment Issues, Boundary Setting, Communication Issues

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If you're ready to schedule an appointment with Madison, call (217) 471-4229 or email contact.blackberry@blackberrycounselingcenter.com today! 

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