Hello

My name is Courtney Kocenda, and I'm excited to meet you. Let me share a bit about my background. Before transitioning into mental health counseling in May 2024, I spent over five years working in private childcare. My passion for supporting children and their families has always been a driving force in my career.

A pivotal experience that solidified my commitment to mental health counseling came during my time in the transplant unit of a level 1 trauma center prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. Witnessing the significant lack of mental health support and resources for patients and their families deeply impacted me. This experience ignited my desire to pursue a career where I could make a meaningful difference in people's lives.

Education & Career

I earned a Bachelor's of Science in Psychology from Robert Morris University. During my undergraduate studies, I spent a year working as a nursing assistant/technician in the transplant unit. My patients included transplant recipients, donors, and trauma cases.

I completed my graduate studies in a hybrid program at Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia. My internship was at a substance abuse in/outpatient treatment center located in Southern California. I provided mental health support to individuals struggling with moderate to severe dual diagnoses, including addiction, schizoaffective disorder, PTSD, panic disorder, severe depression, and ADHD. I also conducted group therapy sessions focused on CBT interventions.

My long-term goal is to pursue a Psy.D. program in Clinical Psychology and become a Licensed Psychologist. In the short term, I'm interested in EMDR, Complex Trauma, Attachment and expanding my knowledge of CBT interventions.

Specialization and Approach

I work with clients of all ages, from 7 and up. I enjoy helping children and teens develop healthy coping skills and emotional regulation techniques. This involves teaching them how to identify and manage their emotions, build resilience, and develop positive coping strategies. By equipping young people with these tools, they can navigate life's challenges with greater self confidence and well-being.

I also work with adults struggling with various life challenges such as childhood trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and addiction. My expertise extends to helping adults overcome the effects of past trauma, manage anxiety and depression, address attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and break free from addiction. I understand that these challenges can be overwhelming, and I'm committed to providing a safe and supportive space for individuals to heal and grow.

My counseling style is rooted in psychodynamic theory. This approach emphasizes the importance of understanding the unconscious mind and exploring past experiences to gain insight into present-day difficulties. By examining underlying patterns and beliefs, we can work together to uncover and address the root causes of your challenges. I recognize that every person is unique, and a one-size-fits-all approach may not be effective. I'm open to incorporating other therapeutic techniques, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), to tailor my approach to your specific needs and preferences.

For You

My primary focus is on you and your specific goals. I believe in a client-centered approach to therapy, where your needs and aspirations take precedence. I view you as an active participant in your healing journey. We'll work together to identify your goals, explore your challenges, and develop strategies to overcome them. These skills will allow you to navigate life's challenges and build a more fulfilling life. My goal is to empower you to take control of your mental health and make positive changes.

I believe that a safe and supportive environment is essential for effective therapy. I'll strive to create a space where you feel comfortable expressing yourself freely without fear of judgment. I'll listen attentively to your experiences and concerns, and I'll provide guidance and support when needed. The pace of our sessions will be determined by your comfort level and readiness to explore challenging topics.

Please feel free to ask any questions you have about the process. I'm here to answer your questions and provide clarification whenever needed. Your understanding and participation are crucial to the success of our therapeutic relationship.