Geraldine (Geri) Godbolt

I believe that each client has unique concerns and issues that should be focused upon one at a time. However, some conditions have to be treated concurrently, such as times when comorbid (underlying and preexisting) conditions exist, for example: PTSD and anxiety and depression, or substance abuse and other mental health disorders. During this time of pandemic, social unrest, and beyond; my role is to help you explore your concerns/issues and build new realities based upon your strengths. I view counseling as a collaborative process whereby the achievement of mutually defined counseling goals is accomplished through commitment and patience. Counseling can help you gain personal insight and lead you to a better understanding of yourself and others. I use a variety of theoretical approaches individualized for you and your life situation. Diagnostic and testing information will be used to help guide my work with you. Your active involvement in and out of our sessions together is essential to gain maximum benefit from your counseling sessions. I may ask you to do homework assignments, exercises or journals. Periodically, we will evaluate our progress and, if necessary, redesign our treatment plan. Remember we are in this together. My commitment is to walk alongside you. As with any intervention, there are both benefits and risks associated with counseling that may include experiencing uncomfortable levels of feelings like sadness, guilt, anger or frustration. Often progress is a gradual process. The goal is to achieve the best and most promising outcome for you.

I graduated from Regent University College of Arts and Science earning a Bachelor of Science (BS) of Psychology Cum Laude, and lifetime membership in Psi Chi a Psychological Honor Society. Upon acceptance at Regent University School of Psychology & Counseling Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program (CACREP). I earned a Master of Art (MA) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a Certificate of Graduate Studies (CGS) in Trauma.. I am a member of Chi Sigma Iota Alpha Omega Lambda, Counseling Academic and Professional Honor Society International. I hold board certification credentials through the National Board of Certified Counselors as a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC) and Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CCMHC). I have completed the CADC-II credential. I am pursuing (3rd year) a PhD in Clinical Psychology to better serve clients with psychological testing. Additionally, I am pursuing the MAT (medication-assisted treatment/medically assisted therapy), and Clinical Supervisor credentials CPCS & ACS (Certified Professional Counselor Supervisor & Approved Clinical Supervisor Courses Complete; Licensures in progress, applications in progress).

Area of competence consist of assessment, diagnosis and treatment of mental and emotional disorders and trauma; utilizing treatment approaches such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness and Acceptance-Based Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Person Centered, Reality and related Choice therapies, Motivational Interviewing techniques, mental health services consultation and training; and individual and group counseling.

Most recently, I have had the awesome privilege of working as Lead Clinician at a residential facility walking alongside women, women with children, and men experiencing homelessness. We utilize a transformational model of change centered in both Person-Centered and Cognitive Behavioral Therapeutic approaches. Realizing that one approach is not appropriate for all we integrate other modalities in treatment with amazing outcomes. I must say that it has been a world-class experience, and one of the most challenging yet rewarding times of my vocation thus far.