Forward Counseling of the Mid South

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Break Free from Old Patterns: A Q&A with Tyra Watts Ph.D., tLPC/MHSP, NCC, CRC, CHWC, IPEC, CVE

Meet Forward Counseling’s new provider, Tyra Watts Ph.D., tLPC/MHSP, NCC, CRC, CHWC, IPEC, CVE! With a focus on holistic well-being, Tyra helps clients navigate life's challenges with compassion and expertise.

If you are feeling stuck in negative patterns or struggling with life's challenges, believe that you're not alone.

Dr. Tyra Watts, a highly experienced therapist, believes in the power of self-discovery and offers a compassionate and integrative approach to healing. Drawing from a wide range of evidence-based methods, she creates a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or navigating life transitions like menopause, Watts provides a safe and supportive space to explore your challenges and uncover your true potential. With a focus on self-awareness and a touch of humor, she guides you on your journey towards a more fulfilling and balanced life.

Join us for a Q&A session with Tyra Watts, our newest mental health provider. Learn about her expertise and how he can help you achieve your well-being goals.

1. What inspired you to become a counselor, and how does your journey influence your work with clients?

I was drawn to the field of counseling by my desire to help others. I have always wanted to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others by listening, being empathetic, and providing support and guidance through challenging situations. My areas of interest have been influenced by my own personal challenges, allowing me to better understand the complexities of what my clients are experiencing. My ability to overcome challenges can hopefully inspire hope and resilience while also ensuring the client's needs remain central to the therapy process.

2. How do you help clients overcome feeling “stuck” in negative patterns or unresolved pain?

It is important to allow the client to set their pace and make choices about their therapeutic journey. I emphasize that the process is a marathon and not a sprint. Active listening is key to helping clients who feel "stuck." Identifying the root causes of their stagnation, encouraging self-reflection and journaling to promote introspection and positive visualization, and collaboratively creating achievable, actionable steps toward their desired goals. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy is used to help accept difficult emotions while taking action toward valued goals. Motivational interviewing is eventually incorporated to explore their motivations and readiness for change.

3. What does the process of tailoring an individualized approach look like in your sessions?

I approach each client with curiosity, openness, and respect, valuing their thoughts and feelings without judgment. I like to utilize narrative therapy in the initial sessions because everyone has a story. It is from this narrative that I gather information to tailor a more individualized approach. Through the course of therapy, I continue to monitor progress and make necessary adjustments to treatment as needed.

4. How do you create a warm and supportive space for clients dealing with anxiety, depression, or trauma?

A warm and supportive space is essential to building a therapeutic rapport. Ensuring the client understands that everything discussed in sessions is confidential helps to build trust. Practicing active listening and validating their emotions and experiences to help foster a sense of safety and acceptance. Creating a nurturing environment helps the client to understand that their experiences are unique and they are free to express themselves openly, free from judgment or fear, without criticism or rejection.

5. How do you guide women navigating menopause and other women’s health issues?

I utilize evidence-based interventions such as CBT, positive psychology, and mindfulness to help develop greater self-compassion. The menopausal transition can be challenging, so it is important to identify and manage negative thoughts and behaviors related to menopause symptoms. Self-care utilizing mindfulness and positive psychology to promote greater self-awareness, new life directions, a renewed sense of purpose, and relaxation to help with stress. I utilize health and wellness coaching to foster lifestyle changes, incorporating meditation and exercise to enhance well-being.

6. Can you explain how your certifications, like CRC and CHWC, benefit your clients?

Rehabilitation counseling and health and wellness are two holistic approaches to counseling. Rehabilitation counseling focuses on the mental and physical aspects of the patient and the various stages they experience in the process of navigating the world of work. Coupled with health and wellness coaching, I can help the patient identify areas in their lives where positive lifestyle changes can be made to prevent future problems and achieve a better quality of life.

7. How do you support clients facing career or vocational challenges in finding clarity and fulfillment?

I utilize various career assessments, transferrable skills analysis, career exploration, soft skills preparation, and identification of personal barriers that may impact career development. We work on addressing anxieties, exploring careers that align with their interests and values, and building confidence by highlighting past achievements.

8. What role does humor play in therapy, and how does it enhance the healing process?

I am a firm believer that laughter is medicine. Therapy in itself can be difficult and uncomfortable. I always approach all situations with a warm, supportive stance, a hint of curiosity, and a touch of humor.

Humor and laughter are powerful tools that can ease the tension in a session.

9. How do you incorporate spirituality into your practice for clients seeking deeper self-discovery?

I encourage the patient to incorporate their spiritual beliefs and experiences into their desired therapeutic process. This allows for a more client-centered approach and demonstrates respect for the patient's beliefs and the person.

10. What would you say to someone hesitant to start therapy but feels stuck and unsure of their next steps?

Therapy may be challenging in the beginning as it may trigger memories, feelings, and emotions that you have repressed. Talking to a total stranger about yourself can be scary but can also be a relief.

Remember, I am here to listen without judgment and help you navigate your inner feelings. Think of this as a time to explore what's going on and find ways to move forward, even if you're not sure where to begin. We don't have to rush through everything today; we can start with a specific concern you may have or what you feel may be holding you back. You can always choose to start, stop, or discuss any concerns you have. We will move at your pace.

Would you like to talk about what has brought you to therapy?

Don't face life's challenges alone.

Break free from patterns and collaborate with us to a more fulfilled life.

We are here to support you, whether you’re looking for in-person or virtual sessions.