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My name is Jessica Thomas, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPC-S) based in Jackson, MS and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, life transitions, adjusting to life stressors, and grief, using cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness-based practices to assist clients in processing, growing, and healing.
My approach
My therapeutic approach to therapy is integrative, using cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness based practices, yet varies with application based on the needs of each client. These approaches allow me to tailor treatment plans to each client's unique needs, fostering a collaborative and empowering therapeutic relationship.
My focus
I have found that my style of and approach to therapy is a great fit for young- and middle-aged adults as they deal with life's challenges and social pressures. These often present in the form of anxiety, depression, stress, life adjustments, and grief. I work with clients to assist them in navigating these issues and to build healthy and appropriate coping skills to develop a more positive interaction with and outlook on life.
My communication style
My communication style consists of encouraging clients to view our interactions not as "sessions" but as "therapeutic conversations," while ensuring that they understand our time together is their safe space where they can be their honest and unapologetic self. While I engage in honest communication, allowing clients to voice their true thoughts and feelings, and validating them, I also encourage them to be open to feedback at times when when those thoughts and feelings do not contribute to promoting positive emotional and mental health.
My journey to mental healthcare
I made the decision to become a mental health therapist in high school when I realized that I loved helping and supporting people as they put forth effort to achieve personal goals. As a peer counselor, a mentor in church, and a loyal and trusted friend, I have always been naturally drawn to helping others during difficult times in their lives. When it is all said and done, I love seeing people become the best versions of themselves.
My goals for you
As I approach goal setting with you as a client, I work with you to identify what you would like to accomplish during our time together. Doing this entails building rapport and trust between us, and allowing you to become comfortable with the idea of engaging in therapy. In addition, as the therapeutic process progresses, the your progress towards the identified goals is tracked.
My first session with you
During the first session with me, we will spend majority of the time discussing what brings you to therapy, how you have been feeling recently, in addition to me asking questions to better understand why you may be feeling the way that you are feeling. The first session focuses on us building an initial connection and helping me gain a sense of the direction we should be headed in for your therapeutic treatment. As each individual is different, I like to listen first before assuming I know what will work best for you as we move forward.
