ADDISON ODUM
CSW
There are an infinite number of variables that shape our experiences, how we interact with those around us, and ultimately who we are and how we behave in the present moment. Given that life is both joy and suffering, no problem is too trivial, nor too large to address. Do you find yourself ruminating on the past or future? Do you struggle to find motivation for things you used to, or long to enjoy? Are you blanketed with anxiety, have a hard time maintaining healthy relationships, or feel unhappy in your body? Perhaps you know or have a feeling that a stressful or traumatic event is keeping you from moving forward. Within the context of our history, culture, biology, and thought patterns, we can learn ways to cultivate joy and navigate our suffering.
Whether you are looking to therapy as a way to maintain your wellbeing, or whether you are seeking counseling to find a better way of being, we can work together to develop the tools and support to help you along your way. Using a collaborative, if at times eccentric, approach to therapy, I will do my best to establish a safe and trusting space in our work together.
MORE ABOUT ADDISON
Pronouns: she/her/hers
TREATMENT APPROACH
Through a strengths-based lens and an embodied approach, we will work together to develop and meet your goals. Drawing upon your inner wisdom, known or unknown, we work to create meaningful connections to self, others, and the natural environment as you walk an individualized path toward healing and thriving. The landscape of our lives shapes us; this includes intergenerational history, childhood, family dynamics, hopes, growing edges, physical environments, societal forces, and how we make meaning out of our lives. It is through a holistic, person-centered approach that we will address your concerns and struggles.
SPECIALITIES
Anxiety
Depression
Trauma
Interpersonal relationships
Failure to launch
Self-esteem/Self-worth
Life transitions
Overall wellness
AGE OF SPECIALTY
Adults
Couples
Families/Parents
TYPES OF THERAPY
Solution-Focused Therapy
Narrative Therapy
Experiential Therapy
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Mind Body Bridging
“To greet sorrow today does not mean that sorrow will be there tomorrow. Happiness comes too, and grief, and tiredness, disappointment, surprise and energy. Chaos and fulfilment will be named as well as delight and despair. This is the truth of being here, wherever here is today.”
Pádraig Ó Tuama, In the Shelter: Finding a Home in the World
KNOW YOUR THERAPIST
WHAT DID YOU GET YOUR DEGREE(S) IN AND WHERE FROM?
I received a Bachelors of Fine Arts and Masters of Art in Teaching from Memphis College of Art in Tennessee, with a second Masters in Social Work from Utah State University.
SUMMARY OF PROFESSIONAL HISTORY
My career began as an elementary school visual art teacher in Memphis, TN. Since then, I have worked in the arena of wilderness therapy and crisis intervention with adolescents, teens, and young adults. I have counseled adjudicated youth and their families helping them to build stronger relationships with each other and the greater community. From developing life skills, learning to manage anxiety and depression, to working with challenging interpersonal relationships, and healing from trauma, I have worked with a wide range of the human condition over the course of fifteen years.
WHAT MADE YOU WANT TO BECOME A THERAPIST?
A meandering path led me to the office of an incredible and unconventional therapist who taught me how to think about myself differently. She showed me how to integrate my experiences, while nurturing all the soft, tender, hurt parts of myself.
WHATS YOUR THERAPEUTIC APPROACH?
Through a strengths-based lens and an embodied approach, we will work together to develop and meet your goals. Developing and honing new skills, we will work to create meaningful connections to self, and others while you walk an individualized path toward healing and thriving. It is through a holistic, collaborative approach that we will address your concerns and struggles.
WHAT KIND OF HOMEWORK OR ASSIGNMENTS DO YOU GIVE CLIENTS?
Homework is not required. However, assignments can be provided and tailored to each client to practice and reinforce what we do in session. Examples of homework can be as simple as pausing for three breaths once a day, listening to a specific podcast, or completing a written assignment. Whatever the chosen means, we will work together to ensure it meets your needs.
HOW SHOULD I PREPARE FOR MY FIRST SESSION WITH YOU?
No preparation needed. You might feel guarded, skeptical, anxious, or worried. Know that if you feel your therapist is not a good fit, we can find someone else for you to try out. Remember this is a collaborative process and it is your process.