Hello, my name is Karen Patton, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and master's level therapist. I approach therapy by looking at how you see yourself in relation to others in the world, meaning your sense of power and feeling of belonging and connectedness. Many people have feelings of not being good enough, feelings of guilt, and thoughts about things that they think that they should or should not have done, that keep them from fully enjoying life and their relationships.
My approach
My most common therapeutic approaches involve cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and EMDR. The approaches look at frequent negative self-thoughts and beliefs about oneself.
My focus
I am comfortable treating adults aged 18 years and older with depression and anxiety. Additionally, I use EMDR to treat symptoms of trauma and to decrease intensity of negative self-thoughts.
My communication style
The environment is safe and nonjudgmental.
My journey to mental healthcare
In my twenties, I worked as a staff person in an inpatient psychiatric hospital with patients experiencing severe depression. I had many different experiences observing the therapeutic process in the hospital and its transformative power. When there is a safe space to express one's thoughts and feelings insight and perspective is gained. There are new ways of looking at and approaching things. It's a great opportunity for personal growth.
My goals for you
I encourage clients to set measurable goals according to their priorities with frequent check-ins and feedback.
My first session with you
I focus on building rapport and the first session is an intake assessment. I need to take an inventory of current symptoms, as well as life experiences that have impacted you, including childhood issues, marriages, employment, and medical issues. I need to know about symptoms of depression and anxiety that you may be experiencing in order to help you reduce them.