Joalene Whitmer, M.C., LPC

I am a nationally certified and Arizona State Licensed Professional Counselor. I hold a Masters in Counseling from the University of Phoenix as well as a Bachelors of Science Degree in Physical Therapy from Washington University in St. Louis. I am a member of the American Counseling association. My counseling practice is of a general nature and includes such issues as depression, anxiety, obsessive/compulsive, bipolar, bereavement, marriage and family issues, parenting and premarital counseling. I work with individuals, couples, children, and adolescents and am familiar with CPS and related issues. I have developed a 12-week course in relationship enhancement for couples with an adaptation for teenagers.

Clinically, I emphasize a strength-based approach, believing that individuals have the ability to learn, grow and adapt. My approaches include cognitive-behavioral methods, psycho-educational coaching, gestalt, family systems and play therapy. I believe that individuals do the best they can with their current level of knowledge and resources; change occurs as people add new understanding and skills: and improving our relationships is important for happiness.

I am a widow. I have eight children and 23 grandchildren who continue to provide a multitude of life experiences. I also do volunteer work for my church and for Boy Scouts of America.