Barbara Kirkman

I now have 38 years of experience in counseling. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor. I graduated from the University of Tennessee in 1983. My first job was as an Addictions Counselor for an inpatient treatment center. After that, I worked as an Aftercare Supervisor where I helped clients maintain their recovery during the first crucial months following inpatient care. I encouraged client to attend self-help groups such as AA/NA After this, I took a position as an outpatient therapist at a community mental health agency. Here I gained experience counseling people with various mental health disorders such as depression, anxieties, schizophrenia and others. My youngest client was four an my oldest 94. I also worked with adolescents with addiction and or psychiatric disorder, I am very approachable, empathetic and compassionate. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Client-Center approach. I encourage personal growth and development and believe in everyone’s potential. My profile includes mother, grandmother (my favorite role), sister and friend. I love getting together with my friends and family when time allows. This is a second job to me but I put every client first. I love my work and will never totally retired. I stress personal growth and being all that you can be. My hours will be mostly day time hours with a few evening and weekend hours. I will strive to accommodate my clients by being flexible. I encourage self-awareness and personal growth using strategies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness and emotional regulation. I hope to help you find your best life full of meaning, joy and satisfaction. AREAS OF INTEREST STRESS/ANXIETY DEPRESSION TRAUMA COPING WITH LIFE CHANGES