What Therapy Looks Like in My Office:
I offer in-person services at our Vinton location. My office space offers a casual atmosphere where children and adults are free to be themselves. Families can utilize art, play, and therapeutic games to express their thoughts and feelings. Children love sitting in the beanbag chair or on floor pillows so they can be comfortable while they talk and play. I also have fidget toys for children and adults to play with if they are feeling anxious or just like to keep their hands busy while talking. I can offer walk and talk therapy where we meet up at a local park and walk during sessions. Some clients find this more relaxing than a traditional office space and it can be a great fit for youth with high energy levels who have been sitting all day at school.
Why I Became a Counselor:
I’ve always wanted to help others reach their goals and initially decided I wanted to be a substance abuse counselor due to seeing the impact substance abuse had on people close to me. After completing my internship at a women’s residential center for substance abuse where children lived with or visited their mother’s during treatment, my focus shifted to helping children who were in situations outside of their control, such as parental substance abuse, domestic violence, foster care, and child abuse or neglect. During college, I also read David Pelzer’s autobiography, A Child Called It, which had a profound impact on me. I wanted to become an advocate for children so they do not have to endure what he experienced during his childhood. I’ve learned that a child having one caring adult can be a key factor in building resiliency from adverse circumstances.
My Treatment Theories and Approaches:
I tailor my approach based on the needs of my clients and focus on building upon your current strengths. I utilize a family-centered approach to therapy when working with youth and families, which involves looking at how your family functions as a system. If you have experienced trauma, I use a cognitive-behavioral approach, which involves providing education about trauma, practicing coping skills, learning how to challenge unhelpful thoughts, and telling the story of your trauma.
My Certifications and Trainings:
I earned my master’s degree in counseling and social psychology from Ball State University in Indiana and am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia. I received training in Family Centered Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Problematic Sexual Behavior Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
My Life Outside of Work:
Spending time connecting with family, friends, and nature are my top priorities. 
I love traveling, exploring National Parks, capturing photos of nature, glamping,
kayaking, and going to car shows with my ‘51 Chevy DeLuxe that I inherited from my dad. At home, I enjoy game nights with friends and family, tending to my plants, loving on my dog and cats, baking, and cake decorating. I also enjoy volunteering at a local Celebrate Recovery.
My Favorite Movie or Song:
My favorite song is Amazing Grace, not only because it reminds me of my grandma, but it also reminds me of the power of forgiveness, redemption, and mercy. I believe it is important to give yourself permission to release any guilt, regret, and shame regarding your past so you can be free to move forward and focus on your present and future goals.
If I weren’t a counselor, I’d be:
I love to bake, so I would pursue a career involving baking and cake decorating. My first job was working at a bakery and I loved it. I currently love using my artistic talent to create beautiful or unique cakes for friends and family member’s special occasions.
Hobbies/Interests/Passions:
I have a lot of hobbies and interests, but I would say my top 3 are traveling, photography, and baking. I also enjoy art, reading, and watching series on Netflix.
Practice Highlights:
● Day and evening appointments
● In-person sessions at our Vinton location
● Walk and talk therapy
● Online appointments for people who live in Virginia
Availability
Amanda provides in-person counseling services in Vinton, Virginia and online counseling throughout Virginia.
