Pamela Swanson, M.Ed., LPC
Therapy that Works
ABC Life Solutions
I am the sole practitioner at ABC Solutions which offers individual, family, and couple counseling. My approach is solution focused and narrative—looking at the presenting problem and finding solutions within the story the client tells about his/her life. I adhere to the systemic approach when looking at families—believing the system has created the problem rather than one person in the family being the problem. I include many cognitive/behavioral techniques such as homework, repeated affirmations, goal sheets, hand outs, in session practice, and other behavioral techniques to assist with quick change. While most problems can be dealt with in this manner, a client’s history often has an impact on “stuckness” and past issues will be taken in to account if necessary.
The initial assessment always includes a brief history of family, work, medical, social environmental, alcohol and drug use, along with previous treatment and risk assessment (suicidality and homicidality). With any significant finding a more in depth evaluation may be necessary.
I have experience and training in parenting, premarital therapy, play therapy, couple issues, gay and lesbian issues, trauma, anger management, mood disorders, alcohol and drug abuse, depression, anxiety, compulsive disorders, health related issues, co-dependence, eating disorders, women’s issues, stress management, post traumatic stress disorder, occupational issues, life management, bereavement, adolescent issues, domestic violence, incest survivors and sexual dysfunction.
I work with all ages face to face but can not provide play therapy for children telephonically for obvious reasons. Though I have worked with trauma survivors extensively, many trauma treatments require face to face counseling. I cannot do EMDR telephonically.
I believe in the power of my clients to heal themselves with guidance and education. By applying the skills they will learn in the therapy sessions they can transform their lives. I also believe that by changing your thinking you can change your life. Your feelings come for your thinking. Even when “out there” circumstances seem to control your life, you can choose how to perceive them. I help you take charge of your life.
Education/Training
I recieved my bachelor degree in elementary education and special education the summer of 1971 from MInot State University in North Dakota and taught school for about 15 years. IN 1984 I also receiving a masters in remedial reading from Moorhead State University in Moorhead, MInnesota. I began a career change in 1992 and got my masters in counseling educaiton from North Dakota State University in 1994 and began my private practice that year. Over the years I have gotten certification in EMDR, Bereavement, as well as extensive training in attachment disorders. I am currently involved in a one year program for infant and toddler mental health with the Harris Institute in Phoeniz, AZ.
Bio
As a master’s level therapist I bring a wealth of experience to guide you in your change process. I am also a certified EMDR provider and a certified bereavement counselor. I have been in practice in Lake Havasu City, Arizona, since 1994, having received a master’s degree in Counseling Education from North Dakota State University in May of 1994. I expanced my practice to North Dakota, where I spend part of my year, having been licensed in that state since April of 2010. I adhere to the ethical standards of the American Counseling Association, of which I am a member. Married and with three grown children and a grandchild, I have personal experience in marriage and family.
Memberships
American Counseling Association
Lake Havasu Chamber of Commerce
Payments Accepted
cash, check, credit card, insurance
Hours:8-6 m-f and 8-12 sat.
Cost/Session
$65
License:AZ--LPC 2152, ND-659-4-1-+10
Helpful Links
Practice Areas/Issues Treated
 Therapy
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Life and Wellness Coaching
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Addiction
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Life Transitions
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Adolescents
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Loneliness
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Anger Management
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Marriage & Family Therapy
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Anxiety and Panic
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Marriage Counseling
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Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD)
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Men's Issues
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Body Image Issues
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Neuropsychological Evaluation / Testing
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Caregiver Issues
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Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
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Chronic Illness
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Online / Teletherapy
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Couples
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Pre and Postpartum Mental Health
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Depression
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Relationship Issues
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Divorce
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Self-Esteem Issues
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Domestic Violence
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Seniors and Elder Care Issues
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Eating Disorders
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Sexual Dysfunction
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Educational Therapy
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Stress Management
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Gay or Lesbian Issues
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Trauma and PTSD
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Gifted / Talented Issues
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Women's Issues
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Grief and Loss
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Work and Career Issues
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Learning Disabilities
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Licenses/Certifications
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Certified Professional Counselor (ABPC)
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