More on Lisa
“Growing up, I realized that I needed others, but I didn't want to need others. It was uncomfortable and vulnerable and even if it wasn’t true, I had a hard time not labeling my own ‘need’ as ‘needy.’” - Lisa
The story.
From the time I entered this planet I have been in touch with the world of mental illness and addiction. Let's just say, all families have their "stuff" and this was what came with mine. I felt it was my role within my family to mediate, be the "family therapist" and help promote the peace. From an early age I came to the conclusion that my reliance on myself was the safest place to be. In doing so, I discovered that I had an inner source that I could trust to help me through adversity when it arose. I knew that if nothing else, I could always rely on my own person. As you might imagine, this was a strength and a barrier. Growing up, I realized that I needed others, but I didn't want to need others. It was uncomfortable and vulnerable and even if it wasn’t true, I had a hard time not labeling my own “need” as “needy.” I have heard this a lot from my clients who have also walked through difficult times in their childhoods. I know what it's like to rely on your own strength and seek belonging and worthiness of someone's love at the same time. My upbringing challenged me to do the necessary work to grow and tend to my emotional world through self awareness and reflection.
It's hard to take up space for ourselves sometimes when we're so focused on others. Even now, as I tell my story I can hear my inner child say, "No! Don't go there!" In reality, I want to fight against my desire to disregard the importance of my story and that's something I want to give to you too. I have been through hard things and I want to help you move through hard things too.
My training.
I received my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at the University of Colorado followed by my Master’s in Counseling at the University of Houston allowing me to pursue my licensure as a professional counselor in the state of Texas. After this, I completed a Master’s Program at the University of Houston Clear Lake for Marriage and Family Therapy. In 2016 I completed a yoga teacher training giving me a unique understanding and insight into mindfulness principles from the Eastern traditions. During my graduate school training I had the privilege to assist women in tackling addiction, mental illness, repairing ruptured family systems, and finding employment. I have provided counseling within the hospital environment working with women battling breast cancer and helping them to overcome the toll this took on their mental and physical vitality through mindfulness based stress management, health coaching and cognitive behavioral therapy. Most recently I had the privilege of working with clients with an array of concerns including those battling addiction, living in families with addiction, and numerous other challenges. I have worked with people of all ages and backgrounds from adolescents to seniors and especially love working with young adults.
My commitment.
Every single day of my life led me to becoming a counselor. It's as though the path was laid before me from day one. I am committed to providing the safety, comfort, and belonging that we all seek as humans and that I actively sought as a child. Sometimes we are drawn to a calling in our lives and mine is simply to help. I want you to know it's OK to ask for help and get what you need. I am honored to get to be an ally for you and your life. I will be there to give you support, acceptance and safety and I will always be in your corner.