Hi! I'm Jenny Lewis, a licensed clinical mental health counselor from Leland, NC. I have worked with all populations throughout my almost 20-year career and most enjoy working with children and couples. Therapy is a collaborative process and it is important that the connection is comfortable. Education is very important to me so I do a lot of skills teaching as well as assigning homework!
My approach
Everyone has a different story - even if the diagnosis is the same, the appropriate therapeutic approach is determined based on the symptoms and client's needs. Planning for an amazing future by embracing the present is my hope for all clients. I prefer Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, though will use other approaches as appropriate.
My focus
I work with all populations though I am least familiar with geriatric concerns. I prefer to work with individuals both adults and children, as well as with couples and families. I have extensive experience with depression, anxiety, ADHD, learning challenges, and interpersonal relationships.
My communication style
Clients of mine can expect that I will be at the scheduled session every time and I will be on time. I have a laid-back style that previous clients have indicated is comfortable and "doesn't feel clinical". It is important that the session is a conversation with questions and statements meant to challenge you and make you think.
My journey to mental healthcare
I began thinking about being a therapist when I was in my first career as a teacher. My goal was to work with children with behavior issues and realized I was more interested in guiding these children individually. I still love teaching and it is a part of each therapy session. The best part of what I do is when clients come to session and talk about the success they had using the skills they learned in the previous session. That's what this is all about.
My goals for you
Your reason for seeking therapy is quite individual. I start each client with basic goals for skill building and practice then move to specific goals we set together as we better understand your desired outcomes. These are YOUR expectations for yourself.
My first session with you
The first session is one of my favorites - and the one that gives even me a few butterflies! My goal during the first session is to introduce myself, answer any questions you have about the process and about my practice. I want to get to know you and understand a little about the purpose of seeking therapy. I can appreciate that we are strangers at that first meeting and you will set the pace.