Brenda has yet to meet anyone who has not been touched by drug or alcohol use, either their own or that of someone they love. That is why she wants every person to know that help is available, no matter who they are. Jail or death does not have to be part of anyone’s story.
Brenda has worked in mental health since 1995. She has counseled children, teens, and adults from many cultures in Virginia, Florida, Ohio, Arizona, and North Carolina. She has served in hospitals, a county jail, homes and communities, nonprofits, and private practice. In more than 30 years, she has found there is a way to help each person recover from mental health, substance use, and co-occurring disorders.treatment.
Her path started in an art class. While taking fine art courses at Tidewater Community College, Brenda learned about art therapy. It let her combine her art skills with her interest in psychology, and she went on to graduate school to become an art therapist.
She later earned her credentials as a certified addictions professional while working at the Pinellas County Jail in Florida.
Today, as an LCAS and art therapist at Renovia Behavioral Health, Brenda uses proven approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Enhancement Therapy, and trauma-informed care. She stays motivated, passionate, and compassionate about helping people make the changes they need to live healthier lives.