Hello Everyone! We would like you to meet Betsy! Betsy is one of our highly qualified counselors who contributes greatly to both our IOP program and our Mental Health Counseling program. Read below as Betsy answers some great questions about addiction counseling!
What certifications do you hold that qualify you to practice?
I became a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and Nationally Board Certified Counselor (NCC) in 2001 after obtaining my Master of Science Degree at the ripe old age of 41!! In addition to those credentials, I am also a Certified Bereavement Facilitator, and a Certified Forensic Counselor, which will allow me to be an expert witness in a court of law. Although, I have never been called.
What do you do at New Beginnings Recovery Center?
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with a specialty in Dual Diagnosis at New Beginnings. That means I work with those that have both substance dependence as well as a mental health illness. My goal is to teach my clients about the relationship that addiction and mental illness have, and the importance of treating both disorders together, so one does not lead to relapse of the other.
What is your favorite part about your job?
My favorite part of my job is ….. pretty much all of it! I am thoroughly honored to be a part of someone’s journey. It is always a privilege when another person allows me entry into their deepest, darkest, scariest places in their minds and heart.
Why do you personally think that counseling is important for someone in recovery?
Twelve Step meetings are a very important part of recovery though it addresses only the using and the wreckage of our past. Sponsors and 12 Step program peers are not trained to be therapists. Therapy is important because once you put down the drink or drug the issues that triggered your usage remain, and actually begin to float to the surface. It is through therapy that these issues are brought up and processed in a safe and nonjudgmental environment. Through therapy you will come to some kind of resolution about them and be able to move on with your life, no longer a victim of guilt, shame, fear, self loathing, anxiety or depression.
What would you say is your style of counseling?
My style of counseling is called “psychodynamic.” It’s a talking, dynamic partnership between you and me. What that means is that we have lots of conversation during our time together. You talk, I listen, ask questions, make suggestions etc. It’s a warm and comfortable style of therapy.
What are some of your personal experiences that help you relate to your clients?
I am personally in recovery since 1991. I went back to school in 1992 to begin the long academic journey to become qualified to become a licensed mental health counselor when I realized that this is my calling. I have been through deep, dark, depression as well in 1996 – while in recovery – and so have a good idea of what it is like to have mental health challenges as well. I hope that I embody “hope” for people who are facing similar challenges. After all, if I can do it, you can do it!
What’s something interesting about you that most people don’t know?
In one of my earlier lives I worked as a stock broker. I hated it.
What is one piece of advice you would offer to someone in Recovery?
My favorite quotes of all times for recovery from substances, mental health issues, or other compulsive behaviors are: “If nothing changes, nothing changes,” and “Where there is breath, there is hope.”
For more information call 888-840-5189.
