Divorce, Career Counseling, Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), Anger Management, Stress / Mental Stress / Work Stress, Trauma / PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Relationships, Life Transition
Accepted insurance & self-pay
About Heather
Heather Payne is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with over 12 years of experience. She provides counseling to adults, including individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, medical conditions, perinatal and postpartum depression, women's issues, and adoption-related issues. Heather believes there is no such thing as "one size fits all" and works with each person to find the tools and coping skills specific to their needs. Heather received a Bachelor's degree in Nursing from Nova Southeastern University and her Master's degree in Mental Health Counseling from Argosy University. Her prior experience as a pediatric and neonatal intensive care Registered Nurse (RN) has given her the ability to quickly establish empathy and rapport with her clients. Her counseling approach includes person-centered therapy (PCT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) solutions-focused therapy (SFT), sand tray therapy (STT), and play therapy (PT) along with other modalities. Heather believes we can find the solutions to many of our challenges within ourselves if we feel supported and empowered to do so. She believes her role is to meet her clients where they are and work with them in a safe and accepting environment to help them become their best selves. If you are ready to take the first step, schedule an appointment with Heather today.
"Each person has their own unique story and challenges, and I am here to help you find the path toward living your healthiest, most fulfilled life."
Get to know Heather
Why did you decide to become a counselor?
My first career was as a neonatal critical care nurse. I really enjoyed connecting with my patients' families and supporting emotionally through their children's illnesses. My friends always came to me for emotional support, and random strangers would tell me their life stories if our paths crossed. I thought counseling would be another way to fulfill my love of working with and helping people.
What types of clients do you work with best?
Any client of any age who is engaged in the process and wants to work on improving their life. I believe the therapist/client relationship is the most important part of therapy. When I feel a connection with a client I know we can work well together and accomplish their goals.
What type of clients are you most excited to work with?
Clients who have specific goals for themselves and are ready to make positive changes. The specific problem is not as important as the client's motivation.
What's one thing you wish all clients knew?
I wish they knew how much their therapists care about helping them to succeed and feel empowered in their lives.
Why did you choose to practice at Thriveworks?
I did some research and liked what I learned about the company and its core values. They align with mine. Thriveworks appears to respect their clinicians needs and set them up for success with their clients.
What inspires you?
When a client has an "aha" moment; when something they have been struggling with becomes clear. Or when a client says, "I thought about what you said last week" and I realize we are in the process together.
What can clients expect in their first session with you?
I like to hear the client's story, in whichever way they want to tell me. I hope they will feel they are in a safe, comfortable place, and that I am truly engaged with them.
What do you want to accomplish with an individual in their first session?
I want my client to begin to build trust and rapport with me. I want them to be reassured that I accept them where they are and that I am committed to helping them however I can.
What should clients know about you before scheduling a first counseling session?
I am a licensed mental health counselor with 12 years of experience. I practice from a person centered approach, and respect and value your perspective and life experience. I have worked with clients with a wide variety of problems, and look forward to hearing your story.
What do you do for fun/on your time off?
My husband and I have a motorcycle and love to jump on our Harley and explore new places with friends. I love to spend time outside, play with my two rescue dogs, and read.
What's one thing about you that defines you (non-professional)?
My compassion for animals.
Other areas of focus
Education and training
- Years in practice
- 12 years
- Graduating institute
- Argosy University
- Graduating degree
- Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling
Additional details
Practice information
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