Jessica Simons
Ph.D, LMFT
I have been practicing as a Marriage and Family Therapist for over thirteen years, and I love helping individuals, couples, and families find joy in life and relationships! I completed my master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Northcentral University, and my doctoral degree in Family systems therapy and cybernetics from University of Louisiana at Monroe. I have built practices in Texas and South Carolina and worked with expatriate and military clients in South Korea, Japan, and Germany.
I am EMDR trained and use it often to effectively treat trauma, to shed shame and to eliminate negative self-beliefs. I also use compassion-focused therapy combined with systemic therapy for individuals, couples, and families.
I trained as a Reiki master, and while I do not use Reiki specifically in therapy, I bring in Eastern holistic approaches that are evidence-based interventions for healing anxiety, shame, and trauma. These interventions include meditation, mindfulness, breathing/relaxation techniques, visualization exercises. I combine these holistic interventions with self-compassion work (and often EMDR) for more effective healing and long-lasting change.
When working with couples, I use Integrative Behavioral Couples Therapy combined with compassion therapy to help couples balance acceptance and change while learning to understand and be compassionate toward their spouse.
Because of my diverse professional experience, I am well-trained in critical issues faced by couples, families, adults, teens, and children. My goal is always to improve family and marital relationships with greater connection and compassion—while also working to heal trauma and mental health concerns of each individual in the relationship.
Please note:
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I work with clients ages 4 and up.
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I do not treat drug, alcohol, or sex addictions, or extreme psychopathology diagnoses.
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I see clients online and in person, depending on client’s preference and location.
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I am an AAMFT supervisor candidate and currently provide supervision to LMFTAs and interns in Utah and Texas.