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John Turner: Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have 25+ years of clinical experience and will never stop learning more about how to help people and how to use myself in such a way that I can help you solve problems and become a happier person. I'm skilled at listening with the third ear so I can help you see things about yourself and call them to your attention, things that hold you back and cause stress.
My approach
I trained with some of the pioneers in the family therapy movement and learned to recognize behavioral patterns in which clients get stuck and are unable to rise above. I work with individuals, couples, and more. I like to do family coaching to help clients deal with difficult relationships, family or other. I do more than listen, I can be very active in sessions, providing feedback and insights.
My focus
Over the years I have worked with individuals around such issues as depression, anxiety, marital problems, infidelity, grief, and more. I enjoy working with couples and I'm quite comfortable helping couples work through sexual issues. I've been married 50 years and have kids and grandkids, so I understand the stages of life we go through as we get older.
My communication style
Many clients say I am very easy to talk to and they feel they can trust me. I come with no surprises. I listen intently and also have a good sense of humor and know when to use it and when not to. I can be serious as well as light-hearted. I try to create an environment where clients will feel free to talk and will learn more about themselves and others. My goal is to teach clients to learn enough that they can no longer need me. Some clients continue to stay in touch with me on a monthly basis. Some of us need long-term therapy and some don't. I comfortable either way.
My journey to mental healthcare
After undergraduate school, I took a position as a juvenile probation counselor in a Juvenile Court. There I worked with youthful offenders of all types and performed many child custody evaluations as well. As one can easily imagine, these kids and their families were more than challenging with which to work. After a number of years in this position I knew I needed to learn more about family therapy and counseling and I attended graduate studies at the School of Social Work, Virginia Commonwealth University. My major was in family therapy and during this time I worked in two different family service agencies where I got much experience working with individuals and families. I really enjoy working with clients and helping them attain their goals.
My goals for you
I ask clients what it is they want to change about themselves, their relationships, or their life in general.
My first session with you
Taking a few minutes to learn a little about them and when it feels more comfortable, talking about why they are pursuing therapy. I never push or pressure clients to talk about something until they are ready to do so.
