Dr. Tony Issenmann

My goal is to help people thrive in life and in relationships. I often coach parents who are experiencing frustration and helplessness related to their struggling child(ren). We work together to identify the underlying issues and to develop strategies for the parents to engage more effectively. I also work with adults and adolescents who are tired of struggling with depression, anxiety, fear, helplessness and insecurities. Many of my clients are experiencing some type of life transition and are looking for support to navigate the change with intention. My clients are ready to work together to find more successful ways to cope with their challenges, to be responsible for themselves, to develop increased self-confidence and to begin thriving. -Training and Experience- In 2004 I earned my Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Appalachian State University. Eager for an even deeper understanding of Marriage and Family Therapy theories and application, I immediately began my doctoral studies. In 2008 I completed my Ph.D. in Human Development, Marriage and Family Therapy from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. I have been an independently licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 2008. I am licensed in both North Carolina MFT #1999 and Georgia # 001125. For the past 20 years I have been working with families. For many years I worked directly with adolescents struggling with depression, anxiety, emotional dysregulation and substance use. More recently my focus has been working with parents whose children are struggling with those things. Whether working with the child, young adult or the parents, my goal is to help individuals understand the underlying issues so they can address the presenting symptoms in ways that align with their values. -Approach- My approach is strength-based, relationship-oriented and values-driven. Together we will explore the values that are important to you and examine how your actions align (or do not align) with your values. It is my belief that many problematic symptoms (depression, anxiety, fatigue, irritation, guilt, shame, aggressive and withdrawn behaviors) are all a result of living in ways that violate core values. As we work together we will explore ways to be more aware of your values and to have the skills to act, especially in times of high stress, in ways that honor your core values. I am calm, confident, collaborative and direct with the feedback that will help you achieve your goals. While I will draw from my professional experience as a Ph.D.-level clinician and my knowledge of current research and developmental theory, I will present information in a way that is down-to-earth and easy to understand. -Coaching vs Therapy- While both are confidential, coaching sessions differ from therapy sessions. The purpose of coaching is frequently about performance improvement, learning, or development in some area of life; therapy often dives into emotional issues to work on personal healing or trauma recovery. Coaching is collaborative and solution-oriented. During coaching sessions we will talk about current issues you are experiencing, brainstorm solutions and then roleplay to practice the skills you are learning. We may also debrief the previous week to identify things you could do differently and to reinforce the skills you are solidifying. Coaching is particularly helpful for individuals working to develop increased self-confidence, young adults transitioning to college, adults experiencing a life change and parents struggling with their child’s behavior. In contrast, therapy is a process of exploring and addressing psychological struggles like significant depression and anxiety. Life and relationships can be challenging. Each day you may be presented with realities you do not like and that you cannot control. Learning how to maintain a personal sense of control in the midst of circumstances in which you feel powerless is a vital component of thriving in life. Whether you are looking for therapeutic support to work through challenges from your past, or you would like help learning to navigate your everyday circumstances in ways that honor your values, coaching or therapy can help. - Additional Services - Parent Seminars Corporate Trainings Family Program Creation Professional Development Courses for Educators If you are interested in learning more about any of these services, please feel free to schedule a free, 15 minute consultation or email me at: issenmanncoaching@gmail.com.