Dr. Carmela Drake

I am a Certified Adolescent Alcohol and Drug Professional (CAADP), and a Certified Compulsive Gambling Counselor, level III (ACGC-III) in the state of Alabama. I am a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Alabama. I have worked in the field of addictions and mental health for over 20 years. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect and compassion. I provide a nonjudgmental zone and exercise the use of “person-first” language. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral and client-centered therapeutic approaches. I make use of motivational interviewing in most of my session, but am also well versed in other therapeutic styles of facilitating counseling sessions. My specialty area is co-occurring disorders with adolescents and young adults. I have since broadened my scope to focus on the mental health needs of student-athletes with emphasis on transitioning from high school competition to intercollegiate sports as well as the impact of transitioning to life after competition. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I am glad that you have taken the first step and look forward as you continue to move forward in your recovery/healing process.