Ask the Experts – Counseling

COUNSELING CENTER

The Restore Ministries Counseling Center was established in 2005 as the need for affordable counseling for both YMCA members and the community at large was growing. Also, as individuals entered into the group process, the need for individual counseling often surfaced. Private counseling fees are frequently out of reach for individuals with limited financial resources or no insurance. Restore Ministries Counseling Center committed itself to providing professional, holistic counseling on a sliding scale so that no one is turned away due to the inability to pay.

YMCA Restore Ministries’ Expert, Betsy Abrams, will discuss seeking counseling.

License: Licensed Masters Social Work (TN)

Areas of Interest: Addictions, depression, grief issues, anxiety and trauma

Betsy Abrams, received her B.S. in Marketing from Austin Peay State University and a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Tennessee. Before joining Restore Ministries, Betsy worked in a variety of non-profit settings serving underprivileged populations. These included the Department of Human Services, Hospice and two years with Hurricane Katrina Survivors in Middle Tennessee. She understands that we live in a world often complicated by stress, sadness and addictions and how the transformation process can be facilitated through counseling.

Betsy aids individuals in recognizing the strengths in their lives and building upon those strengths to enhance coping skills and quality of life. She specializes in Addictions, Depression, Grief Issues, Anxiety and Trauma. She is trained in and utilizes a therapeutic intervention called EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing). This intervention can be used for multiple issues, including use with individuals who have a trauma history and those struggling with recurring negative thoughts.

In her work with couples, Betsy brings sound professional skills and knowledge, as well as personal experiences within a strong 24-year marriage. She works with couples as they learn how to recognize underlying issues and core needs. This work can lead couples to achieving emotional intimacy and ultimately a place of healing in their relationship.