My name is Mary Pals and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I enjoy working with clients who are struggling with the day to day stressors of life, by teaching them healthier ways of living life by creating a strong balance between their mental and physical health.
My approach
My approach to therapy is one of being part of a client's support team after building good rapport. Utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy mixed with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy as it relates to their life is my main approach and focus for working with clients. Ultimately helping them to recognize the importance of balance between our mental and physical health.
My focus
I typically work with clients from age 18 to 99 who are struggling with not only day to day stressors, but at times grief, depression, anxiety, and trauma. That being said, I am most comfortable helping people learn skills to treat mild to moderate depression and anxiety.
My communication style
During my sessions the communication is very supportive, open, and real. The majority of my patients tell me they are very comfortable with me, and feel safe sharing things they have never told anyone else.
My journey to mental healthcare
My early career was working in the medical field for 20 years prior to entering the mental health field. This helped me to recognize the huge connection between mental and physical health. I decided to return to college to become a counselor, as my own experience with counseling had been life changing. Knowing the difference that therapy can make in our lives, is a driving force for me to help others find their own joy and contentment for life.
My goals for you
Goal setting with clients can be a very open and sometimes fluid approach. I typically ask in the initial session, what the patients would like to work on in therapy. This gives them more control in how we move forward together to achieve their goals.
My first session with you
During the first session, clients should expect that I will be present with them, listening and asking questions when necessary to obtain more in-depth information to get to know them, but also helping them to feel safe and comfortable with my relaxed demeanor.