by Essential Touchstones | Dec 27, 2023 | services, therapy
By Andleeb (Andy) Atique
In mental health, a comprehensive approach is very important. As a practitioner immersed in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Person-Centered Therapy, Mindfulness, Positive Psychology, and Anger Management techniques, I am committed to guiding individuals towards comprehensive healing and effective anger management strategies.
DBT is the primary focus of my practice and I use my expertise by offering valuable tools to navigate intense emotions, including anger.
I like to hone in on Person-Centered Therapy which creates a safe and supportive environment, encouraging individuals to explore their anger triggers and underlying emotions without judgment. I really want to focus on a client-centered and one that fosters self-exploration and empowerment, enabling individuals to understand their anger from a more compassionate and forgiving perspective.
I also like to divert my focus to Mindfulness practices which can complement these approaches by grounding individuals in the present. Through mindfulness, I want to make sure clients develop a heightened awareness of their anger triggers and responses, fostering self-control and a more balanced emotional state.
Another specialty area I like to use is Positive Psychology. My focus relies on the idea of leveraging strengths and positive emotions to manage anger in a coherent manner. I want clients to really delve into identifying and utilizing personal strengths and find coping mechanisms that work effectively for them.
Last but not least I focus on integrating Anger Management techniques. By employing specific tools tailored to mitigate anger, individuals gain practical strategies to navigate challenging situations, fostering better communication and conflict resolution.
In final, the integration of DBT, Person-Centered Therapy, Mindfulness, Positive Psychology, and Anger Management techniques offers a hollistic framework for addressing anger issues. I employ this multifaceted approach that empowers individuals to manage anger constructively, fostering emotional regulation, self-awareness, and improved overall well-being.
by Essential Touchstones | Nov 27, 2023 | services, therapy
In today’s fast-paced business environment, the mental health of employees is more crucial than ever. Recognizing this, Killebrew Psychological Services (KPS) offers specialized services designed to support both organizations and their employees. With our comprehensive psychological evaluations and Employee Assistance Programs (EAP), we’re committed to fostering healthy, productive workplace environments.
The Power of Psychological Evaluations
Psychological evaluations at KPS are a cornerstone of our business contracts. We provide in-depth assessments that serve a multitude of purposes, from ensuring job candidates are a good fit for their roles to helping existing employees overcome challenges and maximize their potential. Our evaluations are conducted by seasoned psychologists who specialize in a range of areas, including cognitive functioning, personality, emotional intelligence, and more.
Benefits for Employers:
- Make informed hiring decisions
- Develop effective team-building strategies
- Enhance employee productivity and job satisfaction
Benefits for Employees:
- Gain insights into personal strengths and areas for growth
- Receive support for work-related stress or personal issues
- Access to tailored development plans for career advancement
Employee Assistance Programs (EAP): A Support System for Your Workforce
KPS’s EAP is designed to be a comprehensive support system that addresses the mental and emotional well-being of employees. We understand that personal issues can affect professional performance, and our EAP provides confidential, professional assistance to employees facing a range of concerns, such as:
- Stress and anxiety management
- Conflict resolution
- Substance abuse counseling
- Crisis intervention
- Work-life balance strategies
For the Business:
- Reduce absenteeism and turnover rates
- Improve employee morale and engagement
- Cultivate a supportive company culture
- Mitigate workplace conflicts efficiently
For the Employee:
- A confidential resource for personal issues
- Support for mental health challenges
- Tools and strategies for personal development
- Improved overall well-being and work performance
Our Commitment to Confidentiality and Excellence
At KPS, we prioritize confidentiality and the highest standards of care. Our business contracts are tailored to meet the specific needs of your organization, ensuring that your employees receive the best possible support.
Partner with KPS for a Healthier Workplace
Investing in the mental health of your employees is investing in the success of your business. Partner with Killebrew Psychological Services to integrate our psychological evaluations and EAP into your business model. Together, we can create a resilient, thriving workforce equipped to handle the challenges of the modern business world.
To learn more about our business contracts for psychological evaluations and EAP services, contact Killebrew Psychological Services today. Let’s build a brighter, healthier future for your business and your employees.
by Essential Touchstones | Nov 13, 2023 | adolescents, children, services, therapy
Parenting is an adventure of its own—a journey filled with rewards and challenges. At Killebrew Psychological Services, we understand the complexities that come with nurturing the parent-child bond. That’s why we’re excited to feature Lauren Powell, our licensed professional counselor, who brings a wealth of experience and dedication to strengthening family dynamics.
Lauren Powell: A Pillar of Parental Guidance
Lauren Powell is not just a therapist she’s an advocate for families. With a rich background in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Skills Training and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Lauren offers a robust toolkit for addressing the nuanced needs of parents and children alike. Her approach is both empathetic and practical, ensuring that each family member is heard, valued, and supported.
Parenting Tips from Lauren Powell
1. Embrace Effective Communication: Lauren emphasizes the importance of open dialogue. It’s not just about talking; it’s about connecting. Listen actively to your child, and express yourself clearly and with compassion.
2. Set Boundaries and Expectations: Children thrive with structure. Setting clear boundaries and expectations fosters a sense of security and respect. Lauren can help you establish these guidelines in a way that is supportive rather than restrictive.
3. Practice Patience and Consistency: Patience is the cornerstone of parenting. Consistent responses and actions create an environment of trust and understanding.
4. Engage in Family Activities: Lauren advocates for quality family time. Whether it’s a game night or a shared hobby, these moments can strengthen bonds and create lasting memories.
5. Prioritize Self-Care: Parenting can be overwhelming. Lauren reminds us that taking care of yourself is paramount. A well-rested, mentally healthy parent is better equipped to meet their child’s needs.
Comprehensive Family Support
At Killebrew Psychological Services, we offer individual counseling, family therapy, and a suite of services tailored to family counseling needs. Lauren Powell, along with our team, is dedicated to empowering parents and children to build strong, healthy relationships. From marriage counseling to trauma-informed care and addiction recovery, we’re here for every step of your family’s journey.
Whether you’re navigating the daily tasks of parenting or facing specific challenges, Lauren Powell’s expertise and personalized approach can make a significant difference. If you’re looking for guidance in strengthening your parent-child relationship or need support in other areas of family dynamics, reach out to us at Killebrew Psychological Services. Let’s work together to foster a nurturing, supportive, and loving family environment.
by Essential Touchstones | Oct 23, 2023 | massage, services, therapy, trauma
In the world of massage therapy, every now and then, someone emerges who doesn’t just possess the technical skills but carries a certain magic in their hands. Brenda Hayes is that rare gem. At Essential Touchstones, we proudly introduce Brenda Hayes as our resident massage therapist, who is renowned for her anointed hands and exceptional skill set, particularly in medical massage and trauma-informed therapy.
Brenda’s Unique Touch
It’s not just about the science for Brenda; it’s about the connection. Her understanding of the human anatomy goes beyond the muscles and sinews; she taps into the energy, the emotions, and the very essence that makes us human. This depth of understanding and intuition can be traced back to her special training.
Medical Massage: This isn’t your typical spa massage. Medical massage is targeted, specific, and purpose-driven. It aims to resolve conditions that have been diagnosed by a doctor, and Brenda has undergone rigorous training to ensure she provides relief to her clients suffering from a myriad of medical conditions. Whether it’s chronic pain, post-surgical stiffness, or any other ailment, Brenda’s medical massage techniques promise not only relief but also a path to better overall health.
Trauma-Informed Therapy: Trauma can reside deep within our muscles and tissues, manifesting as chronic tension, pain, and even emotional disturbances. Brenda’s approach to trauma-informed therapy ensures a safe, respectful, and understanding environment where clients can begin to heal both physically and emotionally. Her therapy is a holistic approach that recognizes the intricate connection between body, mind, and spirit.
Why Choose Brenda Hayes at Essential Touchstones?
With a plethora of choices available, what makes Brenda stand out? It’s her commitment, passion, and belief in the transformative power of touch. Every client is unique, and so is every session with Brenda. She doesn’t believe in one-size-fits-all; her therapies are tailored to your specific needs, ensuring you walk out feeling revitalized and rebalanced.
If you’re searching for more than just a massage—if you’re looking for a holistic experience that addresses both body and soul—then Brenda Hayes at Essential Touchstones awaits.
Discover the magic of her hands. Book your session today.
Essential Touchstones is dedicated to promoting the best in therapeutic services. Our aim is to connect you with professionals who don’t just do their job but excel in their craft. Brenda Hayes exemplifies this spirit. Join us in experiencing the difference.
by Essential Touchstones | Oct 3, 2023 | adolescents, children, services, therapy
Adolescence is a critical time of growth and self-discovery, but it can also be a period of vulnerability. For some young people, the challenges they face can become overwhelming, leading to emotional, behavioral, or mental health issues. At Essential Touchstones, we understand these complexities and have curated a specialized Adolescent Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) to address and support these unique needs.
Embarking on the IOP Journey
The journey into our IOP begins with a thorough Initial Assessment. This essential step ensures that every adolescent admitted to our program truly stands to benefit from it. The initial session with our IOP Coordinator is a collaborative space where both the patient and their parents come together to map out the path ahead.
Navigating Diagnosis with Psychological Evaluation
Understanding the root cause is pivotal for effective treatment. Our three-fold Psychological Evaluation process ensures a comprehensive assessment:
1. Intake Assessment with a Clinical Psychologist: A deep dive into the patient’s history, challenges, and needs.
2. Battery of Testing Assigned by Psychologist: Tailored tests to pinpoint specific issues and their intensity.
3. Test and Treatment Plan Review: A session where results are deciphered and a treatment plan is collaboratively constructed.
It’s worth noting that if the adolescent has undergone a psychological evaluation at another reputed facility in the past six months, we can seamlessly integrate those findings into our treatment strategy. Our esteemed clinical psychologists, Dr. Alyssa Killebrew, Ph.D., and Dr. Taban Salem, Ph.D., bring a wealth of experience to these evaluations, ensuring accuracy and empathy at every step.
Harnessing the Power of Individual Therapy
Therapy is a transformative tool, and at Essential Touchstones, we prioritize Individual Therapy. Unlike larger group settings, one-on-one sessions allow therapists to delve deeper into individual challenges, triggers, and aspirations. With a minimum commitment of one hour per week for the ten-week duration of the program, adolescents have the opportunity to build a trusting relationship with their therapist, fostering an environment of genuine growth and healing.
Why Essential Touchstones?
Adolescence is a time of turbulence and transition. It’s a period where the right support can mean the difference between feeling lost and finding one’s way. Our Adolescent Intensive Outpatient Treatment is not just about addressing challenges; it’s about equipping young individuals with the tools, understanding, and resilience to navigate the road ahead.
At Essential Touchstones, we don’t just treat; we transform. Join us on this journey of healing and empowerment.
by Essential Touchstones | Sep 30, 2023 | services, trauma
Mental health is a spectrum, and one of the more complex and misunderstood disorders that fall on this spectrum is Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). BPD affects the way a person feels about themselves, how they relate to others, and how they behave. Given its complexity, we at Essential Touchstones believe it’s vital to shed light on BPD and dispel some common misconceptions.
What is BPD?
BPD is a mental health disorder characterized by:
- Intense episodes of anger, depression, and anxiety that may last only a few hours to days.
- Unstable relationships.
- Distorted self-image.
- Chronic feelings of emptiness.
- Impulsive behavior.
It’s essential to note that BPD is not a mere character flaw or a sign of weakness. It’s a legitimate medical condition rooted in brain functions and is often a result of trauma, genetics, or environmental factors.
Dispelling BPD Myths
Myth: People with BPD are manipulative.
Fact: BPD behaviors, like emotional outbursts or self-harming, are often a way of dealing with intense emotional pain, not manipulation tactics.
Myth: BPD can’t be treated.
Fact: While BPD is a long-term condition, many people experience relief from symptoms by participating in comprehensive therapy, like Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
Myth: BPD is a rare disorder.
Fact: BPD affects nearly 1.6% of the U.S. population at some point in their lives, making it more common than many realize.
Your Mental Health Journey with Essential Touchstones
Whether you’re exploring trauma therapy or seeking to understand conditions like BPD, Essential Touchstones is here for you. Our holistic and evidence-based approach ensures that you or your loved ones receive the utmost care tailored to individual needs. Remember, seeking help is a testament to strength, not a sign of weakness. Embark on your mental health journey with us.
Healing Through IOP Trauma Therapy for Adults
Trauma can manifest in many forms, be it physical, emotional, or psychological. Its echoes can linger for years, if not decades, manifesting as vivid memories, triggering sensations, and overwhelming emotions. At Essential Touchstones, we understand the depth and intricacy of trauma. Our Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) for adults is specifically designed to offer comprehensive trauma therapy, helping individuals navigate, understand, and ultimately heal from their traumatic experiences.
Our IOP trauma therapy goes beyond traditional therapy sessions. With intensive therapy sessions multiple times a week, it offers adults the ability to immerse themselves in the healing process, delve into their trauma narratives, and gain tools and strategies to cope, heal, and reclaim their lives.
