Kelly Cooper
I received my Bachelor of Science degree in Family and Consumer Sciences with an emphasis in Family Services from Eastern Illinois University. I received my Master of Science degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Eastern Illinois University as well. In my work as a therapist, I have refined my approach to treatment and therapy, working within a Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and Existential Therapy approach. I assume the role as a helper and thoroughly enjoy the role of teaching within the therapeutic alliance. My background includes working in correctional mental health care and in higher education. I am excited to work with you as a client to achieve the goals you have for yourself in this journey. Recently, I have renewed my love of just reading for fun with no expectations and if free-time came more frequently, I would be reading a new book each week.
In my work as a therapist, I have refined my approach to treatment and therapy, working within a Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and Existential Therapy approach.
First session
My first sessions are largely information gathering and more of a "get to know you" atmosphere. I believe you as the client also need to feel comfortable with whom you are speaking, and I encourage you to ask me questions along the way. I want to know what brings you to counseling at this stage in your life and what are you looking to achieve. I want you to feel comfortable and walk away from the session with a sense of hope. Expect that I will ask a lot of background questions and no detail is too small for me to know.
Strengths
I am quite direct and matter-of-fact. I believe in the power of therapeutic confrontation and how it benefits both client and clinician. My goal is to treat you like a human, not a patient. You are here to make changes and I want to make the most of the time you are giving me. I am honored you chose me to be your counselor and I take that role seriously. I look forward to working with you towards your goals.
Ideal clients
In my nine years of professional experience, I have worked with concerns across a wide range of diagnoses. I like to provide humor in sessions and when clients may be hesitant to share their personal concerns, I share that nothing shocks me and there are few things I have not heard in the counseling space. My experiences range in working with anxiety disorders, depression, disordered eating patterns, grief, life transitions, relationships, family stressors, ASD/ADHD, personality disorders, trauma, and advocacy. My desire as a therapist is to help you get to a space where things in your life do not feel all-consuming. I like to normalize things that may feel abnormal. I like to provide real life examples to aid in processing the things you're experiencing. I am best served to help those aged 18+ and those who are ready to make changes, no matter how small the first step may feel.
Treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I like to help clients see how the way they think impacts the way they behave. If you're looking to make personal behavioral changes, addressing the way you think becomes imperative. All of us experience errors in thinking and I want to help guide you towards thinking that suits the behavior you desire to experience.
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
Life happens and unfortunately, there are many things we cannot control. My goal in using this treatment method is to help you accept what you can and cannot control and take committed actions to aid in the change you wish to see.
Existential
I like to help clients find meaning and purpose to their personal experiences. This approach can be used to process difficult life transitions, grief, and in trauma work.
Solution Focused Brief Treatment
Sometimes, we overthink our own problems in our lives. And that happens. I like to come alongside clients to show practical solutions and step-by-step methods in working through immediate and short-term concerns in their lives.
Mindfulness-Based Therapy
Being aware of our bodies and our minds is essential. I like this approach to help clients reduce anxiety and find more connection in their day-to-day living.
Location
Virtual sessions
Identifies as
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Serves
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Licensed in
- IndianaLicense 39003513A