Sherry Murray, MA
Licensed Mental Health Counselor
Counseling Center of Spokane



(509) 328-3400

Biography

 

SHERRY MURRAY, MA, LMHC

PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS

* Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), WA License #LH00007540  -- since 2002
* Certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) -- since 2006
* Director of Spokane Chapter of Washington Mental Health Counselor Assn - 2007-2010
* Washington State Child Mental Health Specialist (CMHS) -- since 2001
* Washington State Mental Health Professional (MHP) -- since 2000
* Treasurer and Community Liaison, Spokane Chapter WMHCA - (2007-2009)

EDUCATION

* Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology, Gonzaga University -- 1999 (3.9 GPA)
* Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science/Technical Writing, EWU, Cheney -- 1993 (3.9 GPA)
* Associates of Arts and Science, Columbia Basin Community College -- 1990 (3.9 GPA)


HONORS

* EWU Department of Computer Science - Stanley F. Robinson Award for Academic Achievement - 1993
* Washington State -  Award for Vocation Excellence - 1990 -1992
* United States Navy - Navy Achievement Medal - 1981


PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS  (Past & Present)

American Academy of Bereavement
American Counseling Association
American Mensa, Ltd.
EMDR International Association

National Association of Cognitive Behavioral Therapists
Washington Mental Health Counseling Accociation

COUNSELING THEORIES

There are several counseling theories which form the basic philosophy of my work. The basic component of these theories include that each of us has within ourselves the desire to heal and grow, and this healing and growth can be done in an environment where we are accepted unconditionally and valued for whatever unique characteristics we possess. This is the environment I try to create in our sessions, to allow you the freedom and safety to do your work.

More specifically, I use the following therapeutic theories/techniques in my counseling, depending on which will best suit your needs. These include EMDR 
to desensitize traumatic memories; CBT   to integrate your thoughts, behaviors, and feelings; Attachment Theory to support development of healthy, life-enhancing relationships; and Control Mastery Theory  which places us together in a collaborative role to reach your goals. More information on any of these theories can be found by clicking on the name
.

GOALS OF COUNSELING

The ultimate goal of therapy is to promote a full awareness and acceptance of yourself from which you can effectively negotiate the world. This may include any or all of the following:  increasing your abilities to experience, regulate and express feelings; decreasing any sensitivity to trauma triggers; helping you to recognize life patterns and alter them; assisting you to recognize your needs and self-activate to meet them; improving your self-esteem and the quality your relationships; increasing your ability to set, hold, and honor boundaries; increasing your effectiveness in negotiating relationships and compromises; and meeting any other more specific goals which you may have for counseling.

ETHICAL STANCE

For your protection, and to provide you the best counseling I can, I hold myself to the highest ethical standards, which includes maintaining current licensure, having appropriate insurance, seeking outside consultation as necessary, and adhering to the Code of Ethics of the American  Mental Health Counselor Association and the American Counseling Association.


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59 East Queen Avenue, Suite 214B, Spokane, Washington, 99207-1405.  (509) 328-3400

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