Angela is a compassionate therapist who meets you exactly where life may have you at the moment. Angela offers a safe and supportive space that allows you to use the elbow room needed to process, work through, and explore new perspectives. Meet The Team Angel Walker, ALC Therapist Angela is a compassionate therapist who meets you exactly where life may have you at the moment. Angela offers a safe and supportive space that allows you to use the elbow room needed to process, work through, and explore new perspectives. Angela, who is originally from Kentucky, is a wife and mother who loves spending time with her family and their goldendoodle, Biscuit. She enjoys being outdoors, playing music, and smoking various meats with her husband. Angela Walker-Crittenden, MA, ALC earned a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, at Liberty University. Angela is licensed in the State of Alabama under the supervision of Monica F. Shannon, LPC-S. Angela specializes in trauma-informed care, depression, anxiety, PTSD, domestic violence, abortion, and substance abuse. She is trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Trauma-Focused Therapy. As a skilled therapist with a deep understanding of cognitive behavioral approaches, and have had the privilege of helping individuals na:vigate their emotional and psychological challenges. Her professional journey has equipped her with valuable insights and techniques to facilitate healing and growth in individuals who have experienced trauma or are struggling with various mental health issues. She accepts clients on Monday-Friday in person and virtual 9:00 AM-5:00 PM. Schedule A Session Schedule Online for Fast and Secure Service

< Back How to Cope with Race-Based Stress Crystal Mullens-Johnson, LCSW Mar 19, 2023 Systemic racism, social injustice, oppression, voter suppression and police brutality have negatively impacted the mental health of people who are Black and other races for generations. Trauma witnessed and experienced is very personal and unforgettable and can impact a person’s mental and physical health. Many Black parents are also fearful and stressed about raising their children in a country where Black lives are devalued. And this problem does not just affect Black people — Latino, Asian and Pacific Islander and Native Americans also experience mental and physical health issues because of systemic and overt racism. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that is diagnosed in adults and children who have witnessed a traumatic experience (i.e. the death of a family member, abuse, witnessing a violent act, and a serious injury.) PTSD requires a medical diagnosis by a psychiatrist or medical doctor after a physical and psychological exam. A self-report of the life-threatening event experienced and the response to the event provides insight about the client’s perception of the event, signs and symptoms experienced, and the duration of symptoms. It is not uncommon for a person to not recognize they have PTSD and fail to get treatment. However, recognizing and seeking help for PTSD is vital to living a functional life. One may struggle with self-managing symptoms of PTSD and experience impairments in life. Or you may struggle for months or years with emotional and psychological symptoms of PTSD that causes distress in daily life. PTSD symptoms include: Behavioral: irritability, agitation social isolation, hypervigilance, self-destructive behaviors, and hostility. Mood: loss of interest or pleasure in daily activities, loneliness, and guilt. Sleep: loss of sleep or nightmares. Intrusive thoughts. Psychological: flashbacks, fear, anxiety and mistrust. Race-Based Traumatic Stress Racism and discrimination can cause Race Based Traumatic Stress (RBTS), which is most commonly experienced by Black Americans and other ethnic minorities. It can come in the forms of race-based harassment, discrimination, race-based social exclusion or race-based injustice. According to Psychiatric Times , “In 2001, the U.S. Surgeon General issued a report about the status of mental health with respect to racial and ethnic minority groups, which stated that ethnic and racial disparities were likely due to racism and discrimination. For trauma to be present, the reactions need to be associated with symptoms of intrusion, avoidance, and arousal.” Exposure to racial trauma can spark the onset of behavioral and emotional symptoms, including sadness, hopelessness, fear, low self-confidence, avoidance, hypervigilance, anger, stress and emotional dysregulation (emotional responses that are poorly modulated and do not lie within the accepted range of emotive response). Coping with Race-Based Traumatic Stress No matter the age or socioeconomic status, it can be emotionally and psychologically stressful when encountering racism and discrimination for people of color. Understanding the concept of RBTS is vital to coping with it. Here are some steps you can take: Acknowledge the effects of trauma. Recognize your triggers. Limit your expose to racism and oppression by disconnecting from social media and the news. Talk with a mental health professional. Celebrate your cultural norms and ideals. Identify when you are triggered and remove yourself from the environment by taking a time out. Join a cause and use your voice by being involved in social action. Develop boundaries with people who don’t respect you and teach your child boundaries. Challenge negative thoughts about yourself and realize you are worthy. Teach your child about their culture and nurture their self-confidence. Manage your emotions and teach your child to regulate their emotion if they are faced with racism. Use daily affirmations and mantras to manage your self-confidence. Our mental health is essential Mental health is important because it encompasses our emotional and psychological well-being. Your thoughts, feelings and emotions are impacted by your mental health. Mental health affects your response to stress, relationships, and your ability to overcome challenges. Managing your mental health and physical health is equally important; if you aren’t mentally healthy your physical health can be affected. Our mental health is essential. Do not suffer in silence. If you have symptoms of PTSD, RBTS, or experience mental health challenges that interfere with your daily functioning, seek help. Undoubtedly, mental health stigma can discourage Blacks and other people from other oppressed racial groups from receiving mental health treatment. Unfortunately, this stigma exists because of miseducation, a lack of understanding, misguided information that circulates in some communities and fear of people living with a mental illness. You can learn to cope with mental health problems by facing the fear of being stigmatized, sharing your traumatic experiences with a qualified professional, and making a personal decision to commit to change. Labor Union leader William Dudley “Big Bill” Haywood said, “An injury to one is an injury to all.” While we may feel that we are in survival mode and running on empty, there is hope. Employ the suggested coping skills to become a better you. Let’s strive together for social justice and equality for all. Crystal Mullen-Johnson, LCSW, is a Registered Play Therapist in Alabama with more than 16 years of experience in providing counseling services. Her Strive Counseling Services is a private practice, located in downtown Birmingham, Alabama, that offers therapeutic mental health services to children , adolescents, and adults. Mullen-Johnson is author of 21 Days Journal to Strive for a Healthier You (Palmetto Publishing). She is regularly featured as a mental health expert in print, radio, and television media and has a regular mental health column in the Birmingham Times Magazine. Read Original Article Here Previous Next

< Back Mullen-Johnson: Mental Health and Illness in the Black Community Crystal Mullen-Johnson | Birmingham Times Mar 22, 2023 During the month of February, we celebrate the life and legacy of African American trailblazers who used their voices to advocate for positive change in our country and to eliminate a system of racial discrimination. We also celebrate those who blazed trails as inventors, researchers, and innovators. Black History is more than a month observed, it is a reminder of African American’s courage, strength, and resilience in overcoming oppression, discrimination, and racism. African American history shapes our beliefs, culture, and our mental health. The Black History Month theme for 2022 is Black Health and Wellness. What is Mental Health and Mental Illness African American mental health is greatly impacted by environmental factors, such as chronic stress, racism, crime, substance abuse, and trauma. The inability to cope with problems also impacts African American mental health. The mental health of African Americans may suffer because of mental health miseducation, mental health stigmas, myths about therapy, and poor wellness management. Mental health impacts one’s psychological, emotional, and social well-being. One’s thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are impacted by their mental health. Management of mental health determines one’s response to stress and how relationships are managed. Mental health and mental illness are often confused. Mental illnesses are medical conditions diagnosed by a medical doctor. Depression and anxiety are two of the most common mental illnesses diagnosed in African Americans. Sadly, mental illness has mistakenly been stigmatized, by referring to a person as “cra cra” or “crazy.” Medical doctors diagnose mental illness and treat symptoms of the illness with medication. Additionally, they may recommend therapy by a licensed mental health provider. The stigma of mental illness in the African American community often creates shame and doubt. As a result, many are unlikely to consider speaking with licensed professionals who specialize in treating mental illness. Mental health suffers when signs of mental illness are ignored. Cultural and religious beliefs that problems will go away if we “pray” about them are causing far too many people to suffer. Prayer is a great coping skill but it is not a treatment method for mental illness. Prioritize mental health! Lives are taken daily by suicide; crime rates are increasing in our community; and COVID-19 is negatively impacting our mental health. Researchers report that those in the African American community are 20 percent more likely to experience mental health problems. Suicide has also risen during the pandemic. A recent study shows an increase in suicide in African American boys ages 5-12. Pay attention to your kid’s mental health. Look for changes in their mood and behaviors. Ask questions, be supportive, and have empathy. Familiarize yourself with the signs and symptoms of suicide, mental health conditions, and mental health resources. You are not alone in your struggle. I encourage you to join me in raising awareness about mental health. Learn more about how Nurture, LLC and Strive Counseling’s services can provide mental health support in Birmingham. Crystal Mullen-Johnson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Registered Play Therapist in Birmingham, AL with more than 16 years of experience in providing counseling. She is the owner and founder of Strive Counseling Services, a private practice located in downtown Birmingham that offers therapeutic mental health services to children (play therapy), adolescents, and adults. Strive offers evidence-based therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Contact us at (205) 721-9893 to inquire about Telehealth Services or visit our websites, www.strivebhm.com She is also the Founder/President of Nurture, LLC, a non-profit organization in Birmingham, AL serving as a resource for the underserved socioeconomic groups in the Birmingham community. Learn more about nurture by visiting our website, www.nurturebham.com . Read Original Article Here Previous Next

< Back Birmingham Business Journal's Women to Watch 2020 Previous Next

Strive is committed to serving our clients. We offer Telehealth services.   Strive uses the easiest Telehealth HIPPA Compliant Video Conferencing. Contact Strive to schedule your session.​  Inquire about your Behavioral Health Coverage, Out of Pocket cost, and Health Savings Account (HSA) Payment Options. We will need to verify if your insurance covers Telehealth. Mental Health Services Telehealth Strive is committed to serving our clients. We offer Telehealth services. Strive uses the easiest Telehealth HIPPA Compliant Video Conferencing. Contact Strive to schedule your session. Inquire about your Behavioral Health Coverage, Out of Pocket cost, and Health Savings Account (HSA) Payment Options. We will need to verify if your insurance covers Telehealth. Schedule your next session with one of our licensed Therapist Schedule An Appointment

< Back Mullen-Johnson: Overworked and exhausted? Here’s how to prevent burnout By Crystal Mullen-Johnson Somewhere there is a person who is overworked, exhausted, unmotivated, pessimistic, feeling helpless, and struggling to get out of the bed each day. Their coworkers are preparing for a presentation, and they do not have the energy or motivation to contribute task assigned by their boss. Does this person sound familiar? This individual has classic signs and symptoms of burnout. Burnout is a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress. It occurs when you feel overwhelmed, emotionally drained, and unable to meet constant demands. Are you guilty of overworking, meeting the needs of others and neglecting self-care needs? Am I preaching to the choir? In a 1974 article, Psychologist Herbert Freudenberger described burnout as the state of becoming exhausted by making excessive demands on energy, strength, or resources in the workplace. However, burnout can apply to anyone experiencing chronic workplace stress. It’s important to recognize if you are experiencing chronic stress, in the workplace or at home, to avoid burnout and its symptoms. Chronic stress causes mental and physical health problems. You may feel tired, experience headaches, and find it difficult to cope. It is essential to recognize factors in your life that are causing stress, to effectively manage it. Some companies support their employees’ efforts to manage stress by offering Employee Assistant Programs (EAPs). EAPs assist employees with mental health challenges address their mental well-being. Check with your company to determine if you have EAP benefits. How To Avoid Burnout In order to avoid burnout, examine your work commitments. Maintain a realistic schedule to complete tasks and manage personal responsibilities. Seek support from your co-workers/boss if you have work assignments you need help completing. Have a conversation with your boss about your schedule and request deadline extensions. Allow yourself time to decompress at the end of your workday. Establish healthy eating habits and eat balanced meals daily. Get adequate sleep each night. Set healthy boundaries with family, co-workers, and friends. Don’t overextend yourself to seek approval from others. Remote workers are guilty of working longer hours, especially if they do not have good time management skills or a healthy work life balance. If you work remotely, allow yourself time to do work related task as if you were working in the office. Make sure you take a lunch break each day. Save the laundry for when you are off work. Consider getting dressed for work in comfortable clothing. Do not juggle too many tasks. Be patient and realistic with the things you want to accomplish on a daily basis. Mentally Healthy Parents It is important for parents to take care of themselves so they can attend to the mental health needs of their kid(s). As kids transition to school it is imperative parents are emotionally and physically present in their kids’ lives. Remember, an empty cup cannot pour out anything. According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) a national mental health crisis was declared in 2021 by pediatricians, children’s hospitals and child psychiatrists. Create realistic schedules for your kids. If your child experienced a trauma or mental health crisis, see a clinical therapist, communicate what happened, and ask the therapist for additional support to help the child thrive mentally and academically. It truly takes a village for a child to succeed. To prevent burnout “allow” yourself to practice these easy self-care skills to manage stress. A – Allow time to pause activities during and at the end of your day to prioritize self-care. Taking short breaks is a simple task that does not require a lot of time. If you have time, further engage in relaxation activities to decompress. L – Learn to let go of negative thoughts. Ruminating about thoughts can impact your sleep, health, and relationships. L – Learn to embrace silence. Detach from electronic devices, rest, relax, and spend quality time with family. O – Only make realistic commitments. Avoid the “I will be there” trap. Maintain a calendar, use reminder cards, and maintain a realistic schedule. W – Write down positive statements that encourage positive thinking. You deserve the right to be happy and create happy moments. The stress brought on by burnout will dominate your life if you do not control it. Simplify your life by utilizing your support system or make connections with people who are willing to provide the support you need. Be present and maintain healthy boundaries. Schedule a day to plan a schedule. Communicate your needs if you are overwhelmed. Be aware of your kids’ mental health status. Remember, you have a supportive community that includes your kids’ school, your relatives, your friends, and your therapist. If you need help, it is there. All you have to do is reach out. You are never alone. Crystal Mullen-Johnson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Registered Play Therapist in Birmingham, AL with more than 16 years of experience in providing counseling. She is the owner and founder of Strive Counseling Services a private practice located in downtown Birmingham that offers therapeutic mental health services to children (play therapy), adolescents, and adults. Strive offers evidence-based therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Contact us at (205) 721-9893 to inquire about Telehealth Services or visit www.strivebhm.com She is a published author of the, “21 Day Journey to Strive for a Healthier You” which can be purchased here . She is also the Founder/President of Nurture, LLC, a non-profit organization in Birmingham, AL. Learn more about nurture by visiting www.nurturebham.com . Previous Next

Strive Counseling Services began as the vision of Crystal Mullen-Johnson, a dedicated professional driven by a deep passion for mental health and social work. As a second-generation business owner, Crystal drew inspiration from her family's entrepreneurial legacy and her own life experiences to establish a practice addressing the growing need for accessible, compassionate, and high-quality mental health services in her community. About Strive Mental Health Services Strive Counseling Services began as the vision of Crystal Mullen-Johnson, a dedicated professional driven by a deep passion for mental health and social work. As a second-generation business owner, Crystal drew inspiration from her family's entrepreneurial legacy and her own life experiences to establish a practice addressing the growing need for accessible, compassionate, and high-quality mental health services in her community. Crystal’s journey was profoundly shaped by personal experiences with grief, particularly the unexpected loss of her mother during her adolescence. These challenges instilled in her a commitment to create a safe and supportive environment where others could find the help she lacked during her own struggles. Armed with over 20 years of experience in social services, a robust educational background, and unwavering compassion, Crystal brings a unique blend of empathy, expertise, and resilience to her practice. In addition to her role as a therapist, Crystal is an accomplished author of *The 21-Day Journey to Strive for a Healthier You, a book that inspires and empowers individuals on their path to healing. She is also the founder of *Nurture of Alabama, Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to mental health and support. Crystal meets each client where they are, fostering a safe and nurturing environment for personal growth. Her philosophy, Change begins with you. Strive with me,”* encapsulates her dedication to helping individuals take meaningful steps toward a healthier, more fulfilling life. Strive Counseling Services was built on a foundation of empowering individuals to overcome adversity and achieve personal growth. Its mission reflects Crystal’s unwavering belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to heal, thrive, and reach their full potential. The name “Strive” symbolizes persistence, resilience, and the continuous pursuit of self-improvement. With a focus on serving adolescents and adults facing mental health challenges, Strive Counseling Services has become a trusted resource in Birmingham, Alabama. Its success has led to the planned opening of a second location in Demopolis, Alabama, in November 2024, further expanding its reach and impact on the community. Meet The Team Our team of mental health professionals is dedicated to providing you with the best care and quality service. Crystal Mullen-Johnson , the CEO/Founder of Strive Counseling Services in downtown Birmingham, AL, brings a wealth of expertise as an award-winning therapist with over 16 years of experience in mental health counseling.... Read Crystal's Bio Dr. Demechiko French, the owner of Mechi Mental Wellness is a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner, with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan and practice settings, from hospitals to outpatient service and corrections. Dr. French is married to Monique Rusell French, and they have two wonderful kids, Harlee Elizabeth and Daxton Russell French. Read Dr. French's Bio Ashley Shivers was born and raised in Douglasville, Georgia. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Business from The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) and a Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling... Read Ashley's Bio Angela Walker is a compassionate therapist who meets you exactly where life may have you at the moment... Read Angela's Bio Carliea Barckley is an Associate Licensed Counselor (ALC) with a strong foundation in trauma-informed care, addiction recovery, and developmental disabilities. With more than seven years of experience in the human services field, she has supported children, adolescents, and adults in diverse therapeutic environments—including residential homes, inpatient and outpatient clinics, and community-based programs. Read Carliea's Bio Jenalyn Santos is a Medical Virtual Assistant based in the Philippines, supporting healthcare practices with reliable administrative and operational services. She has experience in insurance verification, eligibility and benefits coordination, patient scheduling, and managing daily virtual office tasks. Read Jenalyn's Bio Amber Hendrix is an Associate Licensed Counselor and Nationally Certified Counselor under the supervision of Waynette Smith Ed.S., LPC-S, NCC. Amber is passionate about supporting children, adolescents, young adults, and families through life’s challenges and transitions. Read Amber's Bio Jamette Goston is a Master’s-level therapist passionate about helping children, adolescents, adults, and families navigate life’s challenges with compassion, empathy, and evidence-based care. Her goal is to create a supportive, nonjudgmental environment where clients feel heard, valued, and empowered to grow while enhancing their overall emotional health and wellness. Read Jamette's Bio Testimonials Angela Watkins, Birmingham, AL “Excellent presentation! Crystal Mullen-Johnson was a breath of fresh air for our staff at Smith Middle School. She left us with some devices to use to keep ourselves mentally well during the school year. I would recommend her expertise to anyone/team who needs a refresh or ways to deal with the day to day life and work stressors."

< Back The City of Birmingham #Strong Her Campaign By Crystal Mullen-Johnson Crystal Mullen-Johnson’s mother died when she was 14. Then, she buried her mother one day before her 15th birthday. Although Crystal had family support to get through tough times, she did not have professional counseling to address the deeper pain of losing her mother at such a pivotal time in her life. It wasn’t until Crystal was enrolled at Alabama A&M University, her mother’s alma mater, that Crystal realized what she needed: stronger mental health options. And with that, Crystal pursued studies to become a mental health care expert. She secured a degree in social work. For 16 years, Crystal has been helping people cope with stress, depression, anxiety and more. Clients have sought counsel from her on everything from divorce and the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina to most recently, coping with the threat of COVID-19. Through her company in downtown Birmingham, Strive Counseling Services, she provides therapeutic counseling to address mental health conditions. “It’s my social responsibility, as a mental health provider, to raise awareness about mental health,’’ said Crystal, 39. “In 2019, I started the Community Mental Health Awareness Initiative, in partnership with the City of Birmingham, to host free, monthly educational learning sessions at the downtown Birmingham library. These meetings, which involve licensed mental health or healthcare professionals, are held for one hour, once a month on a Saturday. Times and dates vary.’’ “This program is game changer for Birmingham in that it educates attendees about mental health, provides free resources and removes the stigma about mental health,’’ she said. (Because of the coronavirus threat, Community Mental Health Awareness Initiative sessions have been postponed until further notice. To learn more, visit www.strivebhm.com .) #StrongHER Previous Next

Crystal Mullen-Johnson, the CEO/Founder of Strive Counseling Services in downtown Birmingham, AL, brings a wealth of expertise as an award-winning therapist with over 16 years of experience in mental health counseling. Meet The Team Crystal Mullen-Johnson, LICSW-S-PIP, RPT™ Founder and CEO | Therapist Crystal Mullen-Johnson, the CEO/Founder of Strive Counseling Services in downtown Birmingham, AL, brings a wealth of expertise as an award-winning therapist with over 16 years of experience in mental health counseling. She earned her Bachelor of Arts Degree and Master’s Degree in Social Work at Alabama A&M University, and holds distinguished titles as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Private Independent Practitioner, and Registered Play Therapist. She is the President and Founder of Nurture of Alabama, a nonprofit that provides mental health services to historically marginalized communities. Beyond her role at Strive, Crystal is deeply committed to several community service and professional affiliations. Her leadership extends to the community as the founder of a book club that empowers women to read, gain knowledge, and connect socially. She served on the board of the United Dreamers Foundation, provided mentoring services, scholarships, and benevolence to at-risk students, and contributed to the Birmingham Coalition for Student Mental Health. As a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, and a former advisory council member of STREAM Innovation, Crystal consistently exemplifies a commitment to excellence. Furthermore, Crystal's contributions extend to publications and media, where she has been featured in reputable outlets such as Birmingham Times, Birmingham Business Journal, VoyageATL, and the National Association of Social Workers. Her insights have reached a broad audience through appearances on WBRC FOX6 News, CBS 42, WVTM, and various radio shows, including the Rickey Smiley Morning Show, 95.7 Jamz, 101.1 FM, and 107.7 FM. Crystal is also the author of "21 Day Journey to Strive for a Healthier You,” a notable accomplishment that stands as evidence of her dedication to comprehensive well-being and individual growth. In the realm of clinical development, Crystal specializes in critical areas such as Suicide Prevention in Youths and Young Adults, Grief Strategies for Children and Adolescents, Stress Management, Anxiety, Depression and more. Her dedication and impact in the mental health arena have earned Crystal numerous accolades, including the Proclamation for the City of Birmingham for Nurture of Alabama Mental Health Day, the 2020 Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce Small Business Award, BBJ 2020 Woman to Watch, and recognition from the City of Birmingham StrongHER campaign. She is also a proud recipient of the Magic City Match program award. Participant in the U.S. Small Business Administration T.H.R.I.V.E. program for Emerging Leaders 2024. Crystal is a graduate of Leadership Birmingham Class of 2026. She is a member of Kiawanis's of Vulcan Club in Birmingham, AL. A native of Demopolis, AL, Crystal finds joy in reading, golfing, exercising, traveling, and cherishing moments with family and friends in her leisure. Her passion for providing essential resources to the community and driving positive change underscores her profound impact on mental health awareness and wellness. Crystal is not only a dedicated professional but also a loving mother to her 17-year-old son, Ethan Johnson, and a cherished Labradoodle, Prince Johnson. Schedule A Session Schedule Online for Fast and Secure Service

< Back Meet Crystal Mullen-Johnson of Strive Counseling Services Voyage ATL Magazine Oct 15, 2020 Today we’d like to introduce you to Crystal Mullen-Johnson. Crystal, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far. My decision to embark on my career as a social worker, was greatly influenced by my deceased mother’s career as a social worker, coupled with my father’s entrepreneurial spirit. Her death caused me to understand the importance of mental health, which was not addressed in my community during the time I was grieving. This final seal on my decision to study mental health was influenced by recognizing that it’s an important health issue to address, particularly in the Black community. African Americans don’t always consider speaking with a licensed professional who specializes in treating mental illness. Has it been a smooth road? Entrepreneurship has been a great experience. My business has been on a significant growth tract for three years. The most defining moment in my career was adapting during the Pandemic State of Emergency. I was challenged to implement a virtual behavioral health platform that, ironically, was a part of my business plan. I launched Strive’s virtual planform the following week after practicing and studying its functionality, performing test runs with friends acting in the role of “clients.” My ability to adapt to change seized an opportunity to expand my business beyond Birmingham, AL. Please tell us about Strive Counseling Services. Strive Counseling Services, L.L.C. is a mental health private practice located in downtown Birmingham, Alabama. We tailor our services to meet the unique needs of each client according to their presenting problems and mental health condition. The Mission of Strive is to provide quality mental health counseling to individuals and couples, focusing on empowering clients to achieve self-efficacy to build a foundation for a healthier life. I specialize in treating the following mental health conditions: Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Bipolar Disorders, Anger, Marital Conflict, Adjustment Disorders, Psychosocial Stress, Trauma Disorders, and/or ADHD. I also specialize in offering Play Therapy Services to children ages 3-12 years old. Play Therapy is an alternative means of self-expression and communication that’s effective for children. I am most proud of providing useful resources to the community about the importance of mental health awareness and wellness. I launched the Community Mental Health Awareness Initiative in 2019 in partnership with the City of Birmingham Mayor’s Office Division of Youth Services and formed a new partnership with Bradford Health Services in 2020. The initiative’s goals are to educate attendees about mental health conditions, provide free community resources, reduce mental health stigmas and debunk false information about mental health. Even in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, I have found ways to continue to further the initiative by creating a virtually platform user-friendly and accessible to all. Strive to expanded its platform to offer Telehealth services that serve clients beyond the reach of Jefferson County and surrounding counties. As an advocate of good physical health and devotee of personal wholeness, I co-host yoga sessions with a licensed yoga instructor to offer an alternative to therapeutic practice in coping with mental health issues. I pioneered a new approach towards personal wholeness and awareness with the emphasis upon developing harmony and balance of mind, body and soul. I have been recognized by the City of Birmingham as 1 of 200 Front Line Workers during the COVID-19 pandemic, honored by the Mayor’s Office during the 2020 #StrongHer Campaign as a game-changer for Birmingham in promoting Mental Health, a recipient of the Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce Small Business Award for 2020, and awarded for the Birmingham Business Journal’s 2020 Women to Watch annual listing. I have also been featured as an expert on local radio stations, webinars, podcast and the news outlets in both Birmingham, AL and in Charlotte, SC. Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least? I enjoy the feel of a large city because I grew up in Demopolis, AL, a quaint town. Birmingham is a beautiful city that has gems I enjoy and I’ve established a successful business in downtown Birmingham. Magic City has been great to me. Pricing: Counseling ranges from $100.00 to $140.00 per session (1hr.) Contact Info: Address: 2024 3rd Avenue North, Suite 312 Birmingham, AL 35203 Website: www.strivebhm.com Phone: 2057219893 Email: cmullenj@strivebhm.com Instagram: Strive_Counseling Facebook: Strive Counseling Services, L.L.C. Twitter: Strive_c Read Original Article Here Previous Next

Ashley has over nine years of experience in counseling in various settings. She has worked with individuals of all ages, including children, teens, and adults. She provides a unique approach to life's challenges using dialectical behavioral therapy, solution-focused techniques, motivational interviewing, and cognitive behavioral therapy, with a person-centered perspective. Meet The Team Ashley L. Shivers ME.d, LPC, NCC Therapist Ashley has over nine years of experience in counseling in various settings. She has worked with individuals of all ages including children, teens, and adults. She provides a unique approach to life's challenges using dialectical behavioral therapy, solution focused techniques, motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, with a person-centered perspective. She is trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and certified as a restorative yoga instructor. She is passionate about providing services to the community. She provides a place of safety and encouragement while approaching therapy with an unconditional positive regard. She specializes in helping others manage daily stress, depression, anxiety, trauma, self-harm, and substance use by helping create a place of peace. She is motivated by helping others as well as by her two young children. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, hiking, doing yoga, reading, dancing, spending time with family and friends, and helping the community. Schedule A Session Schedule Online for Fast and Secure Service Therapist Area of Specialization Ashley, with her expertise, employs a unique blend of therapeutic techniques, including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), solution-focused techniques, motivational interviewing, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Her person-centered perspective ensures that each individual's unique needs and experiences are at the forefront of the therapeutic process.

< Back Shining A Light ON The Unspoken Laurel Thrailkill | Health, Tech and Inno Reporter, Birmingham Business Journal Aug 26, 2022 From C-Suites to the mailroom: The mental health crisis is growing View the Article Here Previous Next