Martie has a Master of Arts degree in Counseling from Spring Arbor University with a Post-Masters Certificate in Addictions Counseling from Indiana Wesleyan University. Her Bachelor of Science in Counseling/Psychology was earned at Rochester College, with a concentration of classes in Biblical Studies. She comes from a Biblical perspective but respects the beliefs and perspectives of all clients.
Although her primary theoretical approaches are a mix of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Brief Therapy, she uses a variety of evidence-based techniques depending on the needs of clients. We will explore how negative thought processes impact emotions and behavioral responses, and determine the most effective solutions to achieve goals. In addition, she may suggest other holistic techniques such as relaxation and/or mindfulness meditation. Homework assignments may be given (i.e., journaling) to assist the client in recognizing, challenging, and changing self-destructive patterns.
Counseling is a method of equipping clients with tools to respond to the challenges of life. You are recognized as the expert on your life so counseling will move forward according to the issues you determine most important. The aim is to provide you with options to reach your therapeutic goals. Understand that change takes time and may sometimes be painful, but the results are well worth the effort.
As a nationally certified and licensed professional counselor, Martie works with a variety of mental health conditions, such as anxiety, panic attacks, depression, codependency, and relational issues. Sometimes clients want to make life changes but have no condition or symptoms that meet the criteria for a mental health diagnosis. When this is the case, coaching is the appropriate choice.