Rate Vinalrae Brame

The first time I went to therapy (as a client) I wasn't sure what to expect. Our family had been struggling with some issues in our family business that had begun to impact our relationships so we decided to seek out the help of a professional counselor. The insight we gained and the communication skills we learned were transformative and helped our family heal. It is the reason I ultimately became a therapist. I have a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and an MBA from The University of Alabama and spent the first part of my professional life in sales/marketing. After several years, I "retired" to raise my family. As my children got older I decided to return to the work force but knew I wanted something different. I went back to school and earned a second masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from The University of Southern Mississippi.

It was a life changing decision and the best one I've ever made. I love working with clients and helping them gain the knowledge, insight, and skill set to make positive change in their lives. I've worked in private practice and helped clients struggling with anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, and habitual/mindless eating. I've worked in residential rehab for substance and alcohol abuse, as well as process and sex addiction. I have seen up close the impact of addiction on my clients and their loved ones. I've also witnessed the hard work and positive outcomes that are possible.

Therapy is not easy--emotional work takes courage and commitment--but it is worth it. I have seen clients turn their lives around and live a life they never dreamed they could. I draw on many different therapeutic approaches in working with clients but the specific approach I take is dependent on the client and his or her specific needs. In general though, I work with my clients to identify their issue and any underlying factors. We explore what is working in their lives and what needs to change. We collaborate on goals and set a course for establishing those goals. Over the course of this work, clients typically encounter an obstacle (or two, or three!) along the way. It is during the work of navigating these challenges that clients often have their greatest insight and experience personal growth.

My approach to therapy is direct and I like to jump right in. Sessions can be emotionally draining, and you may even cry at times. Sessions can also be extremely rewarding as you begin to experience things differently and see the possibilities before you. Therapy can be the greatest gift you ever give to yourself--and to those with whom you have a relationship. Learning to understand why you think, behave, interact, and love the way you do is transformative. This insight and knowledge gives you the power to direct your own life, make your own choices, and do so with confidence. Perhaps it is time to work with a professional. If you think you might like working with me or if you'd like to visit to see if we would be a good fit, please reach out. Thanks, and I hope to speak with you soon.