Jocelyn Patterson (LMHC)

Welcome! My name is Jocelyn, I am a licensed mental health counselor and qualified supervisor in the state of Florida (LMHC-QS). I also currently hold a credential as a Board Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC). I have a BA in Experimental Psychology with a minor in Counseling and a MPS (Master of Professional Studies) in Art Therapy and Creativity Development. I have experience working with life transitions, interpersonal development, addictions and anger-management. Navigating goals for Depression, Anxiety, personality disorders and Bipolar symptoms are also areas where I’ve gained significant experience. Mostly, I’ve developed an expertise in coping mechanisms through my current work. Therapy and counseling should be a judgement-free zone! My past experience working with those using sexualized coping has allowed for expansive knowledge and understanding of topics we can often find ’embarrassing’. I find myself to be a person-centered therapist who tries to assess what methods best suit each client, individually. I have been working in a hospital setting within intensive outpatient programs for the last 3 years. My methods are wide spread, as I have experience working with cognitive behavioral therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, motivational interviewing and Art Therapy practices. My background in Art Therapy offers new perspectives into the therapeutic environment. Because we use verbal and written language to communicate on a daily basis, using a creative modality to communicate can eliminate pressure and fear of judgement. Creating something visual offers deeper insight for both the client and counselor. Sometimes, we can’t find the exact right words to describe how we’re feeling or what we’re going through. Sometimes, we just need a place to unload all the gunk we shouldn’t be carrying with us throughout our days. Plus, making art is enjoyable! This goes along with my motto of making progress fun! Using visual expression can help to unblock and clear the way for the good stuff. Counseling and/or therapy should be the client’s process. I like to create an environment where we are working together in an effort to meet the goals you have established, and creating a trusting therapeutic relationship. My role is to help guide you toward some insights about what’s at the root of how you’re feeling, not to give you the answers. That way, you can make informed/educated decisions about what will be the best choices, and be able to make similar decisions more confidently later on. Learn more about Art Therapy practices and therapy insights we can use in session on instagram @paintyourprogress I look forward to working with you!