About Me…

Andrea Strempke, M.S., LPC-Associate*, CRC, NCC

Paradise Counseling & Wellness Center in Paradise Texas Andrea Strempke counselor in Wise county

*Licensed Professional Counselor - Associate

Supervised by Amanda Esquivel, LPC-S and Hilary Labac, LPC-S

  • Master of Science in Rehabilitation Counseling | University of North Texas

  • Bachelor of General Studies with concentrations in Sociology and Business | Texas Woman’s University

  • (In Progress) PhD in Health Sciences specializing in Applied Aging and Rehabilitation Science | University of North Texas

Education

Licenses & Certifications

  • American Counseling Association (ACA)

  • The National Board for Certified Counselors | NBCC Foundation Minority Fellowship Award Recipient for Master’s Addictions Counselors

  • Chi Sigma Iota | Counseling Academic and Professional Honor Society International

  • The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi

  • NAADAC | The National Association for Addiction Professionals

  • Texas Association of Addiction Professionals (TAAP)

  • The Society of Collegiate Leadership & Achievement

Professional Associations

<————Virtual Therapy Dog in training!

I strive to take a holistic approach to mental health treatment, seeking to identify and treat the root causes of mental health conditions, not just the symptoms. Through a therapeutic alliance, it is my honor to help clients manage and minimize their symptoms and work through the core of their problems. It’s more than possible to live your best, healthiest life, despite the conditions you face each day. I admire your courage to seek help.

I am a firm believer that anyone willing to invest in themselves and commit to the therapy process can benefit from the evidence-based, collaborative, goal-oriented Telehealth services that I offer. (In-person sessions are in the works but for now I am 100% Telehealth for your convenience.) Helping you become more effective at responding to stress and challenges and with a better ability to pursue your goals in life is not only my expertise, but it is also my passion!

  • I am a versatile, professional mental health clinician who loves to work with individuals, couples, & families using a variety of theoretical perspectives, but mainly aligning with an integrative psychodynamic approach. I have special interest and expertise in serving individuals with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders, chronic illness, physical and mental disabilities, and older adults who are seeking to live in the least-restrictive environment which aligns with their own personal and unique holistic self. It is a privilege to be in the business of helping people. The work I do feels completely fulfilling and mutually rewarding as I observe clients accomplishing goals and finding their ideal balance in their lives. Working with me means you will have an extensively trained, unbiased, consistent, transparent, open-minded, and relatable mental health counselor who shares the goal of wanting you to feel hope and freedom in your life. You never know what you are capable of until you take that first step!

  • Working with a therapist who employs an integrative psychodynamic approach can be a unique and beneficial experience. I prefer this therapeutic approach because it combines elements from various theoretical frameworks in order to adapt to a client’s unique experiences, with a primary focus on psychodynamic principles. Here's what it might be like to work with me using an integrative psychodynamic approach:

    Exploration of Unconscious Processes: 

    Integrative psychodynamic therapists place a strong emphasis on exploring the unconscious mind. This involves delving into underlying thoughts, feelings, and conflicts that may be driving your current emotions and behaviors. I will help you uncover patterns and dynamics that you may not have been aware of, which can lead to greater self-understanding.

    Therapeutic Relationship:

    Like all psychodynamic therapies, the therapeutic relationship is considered a central aspect of the healing process. I will provide a safe and nonjudgmental space where you can openly express yourself and examine your thoughts and emotions which includes unconditional positive regard, empathy, genuineness, and my deep respect for client autonomy.

    Exploration of Childhood Experiences: 

    Integrative psychodynamic therapy often involves exploring how early childhood experiences have influenced your current psychological and emotional state. I may help you connect present-day issues with past events, helping you gain insight into how your past has shaped your perceptions and behaviors.

    Use of Integrated Techniques: 

    Integrative psychodynamic therapists draw from a variety of therapeutic techniques, which includes dreamwork (one of my favorites!) and free association. I will also incorporate elements from other therapeutic modalities, such as cognitive-behavioral techniques, a trauma-informed approach, or mindfulness practices, to tailor the therapy process to your specific needs. Remember that everyone's experience in therapy is unique, and the relationship between you and I will play a significant role in the outcomes you achieve. It's important to communicate openly with me about your goals, concerns, and preferences to ensure that the therapy process aligns with your needs and expectations.

Tummy scratches for training incentives…

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(To clarify, this only works for the spoiled Yorkie, not me! I like pies that go with ice cream!)