How to Survive Your First Counseling Session (Podcast)

Before earning my master’s degree in counseling education, I worked with autistic children in a clinical setting and teenagers in an inpatient setting. I primarily work with children and adolescents experiencing anger, anxiety, and depression, particularly those with ADHD or autism. I also have experience working with adults and families.

I believe in building a strong therapeutic relationship where clients feel comfortable enough for me to be honest, direct, and straightforward when needed. I draw from a variety of therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution-Focused Therapy, to meet each client where they are and tailor treatment to their individual needs.

I don’t just believe that people have the power to change—I know they do. I’ve seen it happen. When we work together toward a goal that is meaningful to you, I believe you can make lasting, meaningful change.

My name is Elliott Brown, and I am a licensed professional counselor with over 24 years of experience. I enjoy working with adults and children who have a host of issues to unpack: anxiety, depression, trauma, divorce, relationship troubles, work headaches, grieving, and getting older, to name a few. When explaining the process of therapy to clients, I often use the "puzzle analogy": a) you dump the pieces out on the table, b) I help you look for the edges and other patterns, and c) you develop a clearer picture about how the rest of the puzzle needs to be solved.

My approach aims to provide you with a sense of relief in expressing often unpleasant thoughts and feelings, while also helping you recognize the themes embedded within these expressions. In doing so, you may develop a greater awareness of the world around you and, as a consequence, become more resilient in the face of adversity. 

Please let me know how I can be of help to you. Life's problems aren't something we have to tackle alone. Therapy doesn't have to look a certain way; sessions can be a time to unwind and talk about whatever you see fit. Above all, I hope that you will leave therapy a more insightful and happier person.

My name is Judith Uwazuruonye, DNP, APN, PMHNP-BC. I bring 22 years of RN experience, including four years as a psychiatric charge nurse and three years as a PMHNP-BC. I specialize in anxiety, ADHD, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, autism, eating disorders, conduct and oppositional defiant disorders, and adjustment disorders across the lifespan. I have a particular interest in adolescent care — teens navigating identity, stress, anger, and confusion need a provider who understands that stage of life. I provide culturally competent, patient-centered care across inpatient, outpatient, and correctional settings. 

I use a holistic therapeutic approach that combines compassionate listening, psychoeducation, medication management, and individualized care plans. I am empathetic, a good listener, and committed to creating a warm, welcoming environment where clients feel supported. My goal is to help each client make meaningful progress toward better mental health. 

I am an experienced provider offering a holistic therapeutic approach and patient-centered care for the best quality results.