Barbara Kirkman

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor. I graduated from the University of Tennessee with a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology. I went back for my Masters because of my own addictions and my recovery. I am also a Domestic Abuse survivor. My first job after graduation was working in a recovery center After that, I worked as an Aftercare Supervisor where I helped clients maintain their recovery during the first crucial months. Next, I took a position as an outpatient therapist at a community mental health agency. Here I gained experience counseling people with various mental health disorders such as depression, anxieties, schizophrenia and trauma. I have a strong interest in counseling clients who are survivors or victims of Domestic Abuse as I am a survivor of both physical and emotional abuse. I have experience is a variety of approaches including cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and trauma recovery. I am a liberal thinker and embrace life-style choices. My theory of recovery is that my clients are the experts and I offer them my experiences and help them find their own path to recovery. My hours are mostly day time hours with a few evening and weekend hours. I strive to accommodate my clients by being flexible. I encourage self-awareness and personal growth. I hope to help you find your best life full of meaning, joy and satisfaction. AREAS OF INTEREST STRESS/ANXIETY DEPRESSION TRAUMA-Domestic Abuse Survivor COPING WITH LIFE CHANGES COUPLES COUNSELING DOMESTIC ABUSE ADDICTION-Recovering Alcoholic BIPOLAR DISORDER ANGER MANAGEMENT GRIEF PTSD