Andrea Woods, MS, LMFT, CEAP

Asante Counseling Services EAP Manager

As a Marriage and Family Therapist, my specialized approach to wellness is to help people of all ages achieve a more satisfying and healthier balance in relationship with themselves and others in life. This work originates from the core respect I hold for those I work with, and begins by assessing and building on their strengths.

In each of the roles I've held over the past twenty years-counselor, consultant, trainer, clinical programs director-my prime directive and professional commitment have been to empower individuals, couples, children, families, and occupational systems to meet sometimes overwhelming challenges. To begin, the very act of seeking professional assistance is a sign of courage, a person's life-changing decision to challenge the dysfunctional cycles that restrict wholeness. In this journey, people discover hidden strengths and create solutions that are compatible with their individual values, needs, and lifestyles.

In my "first life," I studied and worked in the world of professional dance and theatre. True to this first love, I seek to bring creativity and a mind-body approach into my work, for example, using basic empowerment tools, movement, and psychodrama. I also utilize a broad range of methods tailored to each individual or group, primarily Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, Trauma Reduction, and Deep Relaxation Training. In my commitment to total wellness, I take a holistic view of the individual, often coordinating with other professionals, family members, resources, and support systems.

Over the years, my role as a marriage and family therapist has included substance abuse and dual-diagnosis counseling. My work as a therapist has taken me into a variety of settings, including community clinic, elementary and high schools, university, hospital, corporation, employee assistance program, and private practice. As a Certified Employee Assistance Professional (CEAP), I also specialize in working with employees and client companies by providing EAP counseling, consulting, organizational development, team building, Critical Incident Stress Management, training, and management development services.