(931) 933-5797
Licensed Professional Counselor-Mental Health Service Provider (TN)
Specialty: Registered Play Therapist
Specialty: Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor
Specialty: Approved Clinical Supervisor
Counselor, Educator, Supervisor,
& Researcher
Dr. Michael teaches in the Department of Counseling and Psychology at Tennessee Tech University and maintains a private practice in Cookeville. This website reflects his personal views and provides essential information about his professional services, qualifications, and business policies. It also includes details about his research and scholarly activities.
WHO I AM
A Bit of My Background
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Mental Health Service Provider in Tennessee, with prior licensure in Texas and Mississippi. I hold certifications as an Approved Clinical Supervisor, Board Qualified Supervisor, and Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor. My academic background includes a Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision from The University of Mississippi, a Master of Arts in Counseling from Dallas Theological Seminary, and a Bachelor of Social Work from Georgia State University. Over the past twenty years, I have gained counseling experience in residential, church, higher education, and private practice settings.
My research spans a diverse array of topics within the fields of counseling, psychology, and education, focusing on both theoretical and practical aspects. My work, often conducted in collaboration with colleagues and graduate students, is published in reputable peer-reviewed journals and covers a range of issues such as trauma, attachment, mental health disorders, and educational methodologies. I am driven by a commitment to advancing knowledge in counseling and psychology, fostering holistic development, and applying biblical wisdom to therapeutic practices. Through my research, I aim to contribute to the well-being of individuals and communities, providing evidence-based strategies for healing and growth.
In terms of my practice, I strive to create a welcoming, non-judgmental space for individuals of all backgrounds. My Christian faith shapes my perspective, and I offer faith-based support and guidance to those who seek it. Please explore below to learn more about the services I provide.
INDIVIDUAL & FAMILY COUNSELING
My counseling is influenced by Christian psychology, offering faith-based support as desired. I address mental, emotional, spiritual, social, and physical well-being, considering the whole person and their life experience. My approach centers on finding hope and meaning, supported by research findings and evidence-based techniques. This framework aims to foster transformative wellness and renewal across all areas of life, emphasizing connection, gratitude, resilience, and peace. I value authenticity, vulnerability, and confidentiality, encouraging you towards a path of restoration.
I accept private pay and insurance plans (Blue Cross Blue Shield of TN and MA, Aetna, Cigna), ensuring accessible, compassionate care for holistic healing.
PLAY THERAPY
Play is the natural language of a child, a divine gift for expressing and understanding their world. In my practice, I integrate play therapy to support healing and growth among clients, especially children aged three to 12 years, and their families.
Central to my approach is child-centered and attachment-based play therapy with a focus on fostering emotional healing and strengthening the parent-child bond. Guided by the values of love, grace, and understanding, I provide a safe place where children can express their emotions and navigate challenges.
CLINICAL SUPERVISION
Clinical supervision is a vital part of my professional journey as a professional counselor. I provide supervision to individuals working towards licensure as professional counselors-mental health service provider in Tennessee and those pursuing national certification as Registered Play Therapists.
In this role, I am dedicated to supporting and guiding supervisees in their growth as counselors. I offer a semi-structured approach that promotes the development of clinical skills, ethical competence, and an understanding of therapeutic principles. I consider it a privilege to mentor and empower future counselors and play therapists, helping them advance in their practice and provide excellent care to their clients.
PARENT CONSULTATIONS
As a father of four, I understand that parenting is a challenging journey for everyone. Parent consultations provide a dedicated space where you can openly discuss concerns about your child. Join me to explore your worries, and together we'll develop insights, recommendations, and a plan rooted in biblical principles and child development research to support your child and strengthen your family.
I am here to listen, understand, and collaborate with you in finding effective strategies that align with your family’s unique needs and your child's developmental stage. Together, we can cultivate a nurturing environment where your child can flourish and grow.
TRAINING SERVICES
Training isn't just important to me, it's vital. Quality training provides a prime opportunity to expand my knowledge base and skills. Some of the trainings I offer include communication improvement, counseling skills, strategies for helping children succeed, and attachment-based parenting.
I am passionate about equipping individuals and organizations with the tools and insights they need to thrive. Through these trainings, I aim to empower others to enhance their professional capabilities and make a positive impact in their respective fields.
PROGRAM EVALUATION & STATISTICAL SUPPORT
Program evaluation is crucial as it lets me know whether the time and effort invested in programs is worthwhile. I provide statistical support to evaluate programs, determining their effectiveness and impact. The five goals I prioritize in program evaluation are:
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To gain valuable insights into program functioning.
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To enhance and refine program effectiveness.
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To measure and document program outcomes.
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To ensure accountability for resources and outcomes.
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To assess the overall usefulness and impact of the program.
I am dedicated to using data and analysis to inform decisions and improve programmatic outcomes, ultimately striving to maximize the benefit and success of each program.
The Adult Scale of
Parental Attachment
Short Form
(Michael & Snow, 2020)
The ASPA-SF is an instrument to obtain information concerning an adult’s perception of patterns of relating to both mother and father figures. Patterns of relating can help determine a person’s attachment style. Attachment styles influence an individual’s relationship with others throughout life and particularly influence the parent-child relationship. By assessing patterns of relating, an individual becomes aware of how they may relate to others.
QEEG, Brain Mapping & Neurofeedback
Dr. Michael is currently pursuing certification in Neurofeedback for clinical and research purposes. Neurofeedback is a drug-free solution to training your brain to function at an optimal level. Through training specific areas of the brain, an individual may create new neurons and neural pathways. Neurofeedback has shown effectiveness for those experiencing sleep issues, attention problems, anxiety, depression, and other issues.
"The pessimist sees difficulty in every opportunity.
The optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty."
Winston Churchill
GET IN CONTACT
with Dr. Michael to learn more about his counseling and professional services.
(931) 933-5797