Hello, my name is Denese Walters Henderson. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I graduated from Lehigh University with a Bachelor of Arts with a double major in Social Psychology and Social Relations while at the same time obtaining an undergraduate Certification in Social Work from Moravian College. In 2007, I returned to school and, in 2009, received a Master of Science in Marriage and Family from Valdosta State University. I have been a therapist for more than 15 years.
My approach
I believe in a holistic approach utilizing the strengths and spiritual beliefs of the individual. Meeting the client where they are is essential. My strengths are my talent for seeing beyond what a client is telling me with words, meeting the client where they are, my spiritual development and principles, my life experiences, my ability to work and understand a variety of populations, and my non-judgmental philosophy.
My focus
My areas of specialties are Trauma, Empowerment, Substance Abuse, and Borderline Personality Disorder. I also provide therapy for Anxiety and Depression. I have experience in providing individual, couples, family, and marital therapy. I have provided NAMI-sponsored CIT (Crisis Intervention Training) for law enforcement. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Specialist and utilize an eclectic array of therapy techniques to provide individualized therapy to address the needs of the client.
My communication style
Conversations are important. Exchanging ideas and information is vital. As a therapist I find being direct and honest is a must. Some of my communication styles are talk therapy, writing, and collaboration. When discussing whether therapy is beneficial and works, I believe, “Finding the “Right Fit” is critical to achieving results from therapy. If therapy is not working because the client and therapist are NOT a good fit, the client cannot and must not give up! Instead, to help the client move forward, the therapist and client must collaborate to find another therapist who is THE RIGHT FIT”!
My journey to mental healthcare
I believe providing therapy is a calling for me, it is my purpose in life. I have had many “jobs” over the years but this is a career. I saw an application I had completed for college as an undergraduate and even then, I put that I wanted to be a Social Worker. This is a rewarding career for me.
My goals for you
Goal setting is client-centered, meaning the client shares what they see as their goal for therapy. If needed, I am glad to share suggestions based on what the client tells me they want to get from coming to therapy.
My first session with you
The first session will be an intake session to complete the information required to move forward. The next few sessions will be establishing a therapeutic relationship. It is important that the client and myself establish who we are, and what are communication styles are and share likes and dislikes.