Counseling helps......
...Children...
...deal with playground bullying and shaming; guilt from family issues they take upon themselves; loss of a buddy moving away, a family member or a family pet; self-esteem issues; ADHD concerns; and behavioral struggles.
...Teenagers...
...who struggle with friendship issues and the pressures of being a teen in today's world; anxiety; changes in the family structure; conflict at home and school; loss of a family member, friend, or pet; self-harming behavior as a means of coping; social media issues; academic pressures and extracurricular demands.
...Adults...
...dealing with becoming care-takers of aging parents with failing health; failing business concerns, marriage struggles or impending divorce proceedings; loss of a parent, spouse or child; critical or terminal diagnosis; or just the anxiety and stress of life.
...Families...
...work together and provide support through conversation and activities; help family members manage conflict; and provide strategies for healing and growth.
Belinda Spurgin, M.Ed., L.P.C.
Qualifications
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified School Counselor for the State of Texas. I received my Bachelor of Science in Education in 1982 from Baylor University, my Master's Degree in Counselor Education in 1983 from Stephen F. Austin State University and recently completed additional course work in counseling from Texas A&M University-Commerce. My formal education has prepared me to counsel individuals, groups, children, adolescents and adults in all walks of life.
Experience
I am a retired Educator having completed 32 years of service including 24 years in elementary and secondary counseling. Sandtray Therapy with individuals and groups, as well as Prevention Education have also been important aspects throughout my career in counseling. My experience includes many years of group counseling with children and teenagers including topics such as: stress and anxiety management, friendship and social skills, anger management, children of divorce, study skills, resiliency, and goal setting. I have also had the privilege of working with families who have adopted children into their homes. These changes can present opportunities for growth within the family as they adjust to the new family dynamic.
Nature of Counseling
Counseling is a cooperative learning experience providing a means whereby anyone who is willing can change. The counselor employs directive, instructive, and educational techniques in conjunction with an encouraging, empathetic, and accepting relationship to promote client awareness and insight and to empower the client for change. My belief in God and His son Jesus Christ provide a basis for my counseling theory. I use a variety of counseling styles and activities in accordance with the needs of the client.