About
Austen McFarren, LPCC
As a licensed professional clinical counselor since 2016, I have dedicated my career to supporting individuals through their most challenging times. My journey began in West Fargo, where I grew up, and I honed my skills at Minnesota State University Moorhead. My diverse experience includes working in both inpatient and outpatient settings, such as psychiatric hospitals, college campuses, and outpatient clinics.
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I understand that life is filled with ups and downs, and I am passionate about helping people navigate these rough waters. At Turning Tides Counseling Services, I specialize in chronic pain, chronic illness, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and gender identity exploration. I know how isolating it can feel to face these challenges alone, and I aim to create a safe, compassionate space for you to share your experiences.
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Through telehealth sessions, I offer flexibility and convenience, allowing you to access support from the comfort of your own home. Additionally, I utilize EMDR therapy, a powerful tool that can help you process trauma and overcome emotional hurdles.
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My approach is grounded in empathy and understanding. I believe in the power of collaboration and will work alongside you to develop personalized strategies for healing and growth. Together, we can turn the tide and help you regain control over your life. I look forward to joining you on your journey.
Experience
A Quick Look at My Specialities
As a dedicated therapist trained in both Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT), I am passionate about helping clients navigate their healing journeys. I utilize EMDR to facilitate the processing and integration of traumatic memories through a structured, evidence-based approach. In addition, I apply TFCBT techniques to support children and adolescents in addressing their thoughts and feelings related to trauma, fostering resilience and emotional regulation. My goal is to create a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, develop coping strategies, and ultimately find peace and empowerment in their lives.
Qualifications
Trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
As a therapist trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), I use this structured psychotherapy approach to help individuals process and integrate their traumatic memories. The therapy involves an eight-phase process that begins with history-taking and preparation, allowing me to understand my clients’ experiences. I then assess the negative beliefs tied to their trauma and guide them through the core phase of desensitization, using bilateral stimulation, often through guided eye movements, to help them process those memories. Throughout the process, I reinforce positive beliefs, check for any residual tension, and ensure my clients return to a state of equilibrium. I find that EMDR is especially effective for those dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other trauma-related issues, supporting them on their healing journey.
Trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT)
As a therapist trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT), I specialize in helping clients, particularly children and adolescents, process and recover from traumatic experiences. I use a combination of cognitive-behavioral techniques and trauma-sensitive interventions to focus on my clients' thoughts, feelings, and behaviors related to their trauma. Through TFCBT, I gradually guide them to confront their traumatic memories in a safe and supportive environment, teaching coping strategies and cognitive restructuring to help manage distressing thoughts. My goal is to improve their emotional regulation, reduce symptoms of trauma, and foster resilience, empowering them to move forward on their healing journey.
