Christie Farris, MA, LPC-I, LMFT-A
Philosophy: Human suffering and difficulties are an inevitable and sometimes necessary part of our path in life. We can choose to honor our personal suffering as a time to recognize our inner strength, to draw out our courage, to face our dilemmas, to ask hard questions, and to sometimes make the necessary changes. The process of therapy is unique for each client, but often contains elements of insight, self-understanding, growth, recognition of one’s limitations or potentials, and steps toward change. It could revolve around clarifying one’s values, thoughts, and beliefs and how these impact the outcomes of decisions. In my approach with a client, rather than absorbing the whole process in the “problem,” I choose to work actively in collaboration with the client toward discovering what resources are needed to overcome personal obstacles, to heal or redefine relationships, or to grapple with tough decisions. I have been known to use symbolism, word pictures, stories, and a good bit of humor in my time with clients. I believe the most important aspect of positive and effective therapy is a good, authentic connection between client and therapist.
Clinical Focus: My passion is to connect with others and genuinely “see” them for who they are and to meet them where they are in life. I continually strive to be a better psychotherapist, and love the challenge of working with families, couples, and individuals from all walks of life and with varying issues. I particularly enjoy working with adolescents and preteens, premarital and married couples, and adult women. I also work in the areas of: Christian counseling, parenting and child development, social skills, perfectionism, anger management, anxiety, depression, existential issues, family of origin issues, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, cutting and self-harm, and group counseling.
Credentials:
- Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy Associate
- Licensed Professional Counselor Intern
- Member of American Association of Marriage & Family Therapy
- Member of American Association of Christian Counselors
Professional Background: As an undergraduate student, I set my eyes on a career in psychology, but was sidetracked from that goal and, instead, went into teaching, my second love. During my six years as a high school teacher, I realized that what I loved most about my job was the after school tutorials with the struggling students. I was often more of a mentor during those times than a teacher. When I became a mother of young children, I quit teaching and earned my MA in Marriage & Family Therapy from the University of Houston—Clear Lake. I spent a year during internship working as a student support counselor and family counselor for Clear Creek ISD. After that I worked for Sagemont Church’s Counseling Center in outpatient family treatment seeing a variety of teens, adult individuals, couples, and whole families. At Sagemont I was able to facilitate spiritual healing through the integration of sound psychological principles and the Biblical worldview.
Personal Interests: I am probably happiest with a good book in one hand and a strong cup of coffee in the other. I am energized by great conversations and debates on just about any topic. I enjoy all the nuances and challenges of raising three great kids and adore watching epic movies with my best friend, my husband of many years. I am a dabbler who, on occasion, plays folk harp, learns various dance styles, writes fiction, and attempts to cook something interesting and edible. I regularly enjoy exercise classes, all types of music and concerts, laughing with my kids, contemplating the natural beauty of creation, and traveling wherever whenever.
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