Mindfulness-based Counseling
In order to create a personalized counseling experience, Deborah draws upon a variety of techniques and approaches to meet each person in a way that engages their natural intelligence, strengths, and hopes, while developing areas that need nurturing. She grounds her practice in an understanding of interpersonal neurobiology and cognitive behavioral therapy. Many will have had the experience of making changes or intentions only to fall back into old habits and patterns. At other times, beginning a new direction or letting go feels daunting and overwhelming to the point of being avoided. Many feel stuck, confused, and stressed. It is often necessary to recondition the nervous system to aid the rest of the self such that it can more fully heal and handle stress. Using mindfulness centering techniques in conjunction with solution focused, and insight driven therapy helps you integrate your past so you are more able to live in the present. By having a space where you can share your story and express your thoughts and feelings, a deeper understanding of the continuity of your life take shapes, leading to a greater sense of confidence and fulfillment.
Bio
Deborah began working with adolescents and families in 2000. What began as a job turned into a lifelong pursuit as she became increasingly inspired by the stories and lives of the people she encountered. When not working as a therapist, she also served as the director of a homeless shelter for youth in Santa Fe, NM and coordinator of a residential treatment program for girls with histories of abuse and trauma in Juneau, AK. She trained as family systems therapist and substance abuse specialist, and is licensed as a clinical social worker and chemical dependency counselor. Since returning to Juneau in 2010 she has focused on working with adults and couples in both office-based settings and inpatient settings. More recently she developed the Medication Assisted Treatment program at Front Street Clinic to help address the opioid crisis. Maintaining a strong commitment to her social work tradition, she has striven to help those most overlooked. Over the years she has worked with a broad range of problems and disorders, from severe mental illness to marital problems to life coaching. Today her private practice can be found in the heart of Juneau, AK.
