SKYPE SESSIONS NOW AVAILABLE ANYWHERE IN ARIZONA
Welcome to Breaking Free Christian Counseling
"Be who God meant you to be and you will set the world on fire." St. Catherine of Sienna
Freedom To Be Who God Created You To Be
Do you ever feel overwhelmed or stressed? Not knowing how to cope with the demands of today's world? You are not alone. I am here to help you learn the skills you need to grow and flourish in your life.
There are times in life when you just need the help of professional counseling to get through certain situations. It is nothing to be ashamed of and many would agree that sometimes, we just struggle inside.
The therapy/counseling process helps people get "unstuck". Through the development of insight and increased self awareness, people are able to gain a better understanding of their own behavior and the issues, feelings and events that motivate them. This often translates into increased self-confidence, productivity and a greater sense of vitality and peace of mind.
Providing professional guidance for couples and families, I can help you to find effective and realistic solutions to resolve the issues that are negatively affecting your marriage and family life. Each person has particular reasons for seeking counseling. As a qualified therapist I can help to identify and resolve the difficult family and relationship issues you are currently dealing with by providing professional guidance for:
- Successful conflict resolution
- Effective communication for couples and families
- Rekindling the romance in your marriage
- Restoring intimacy in your relationship
- Preventing breakup or divorce
- Dealing with separation or divorce
- Blended family issues
- Resolving parent-child conflicts
- Healing from infidelity
- Re-building trust
- Learning how to effectively communication with your partner and family members
- Stress management for families and couples
- Anger management for families and couples
- Dealing with grief and loss in the family
- Addiction problems in families and marriage
- Dealing with family members in difficulty
Find relief and solutions with effective individual, marriage and family counseling that is goal oriented and designed to help you solve your problems in the shortest time possible.
Whatever your circumstances, there is no need to struggle on your own. Located in Wickenburg, AZ Breaking Free Christian Counseling provides effective counseling that can change your life.
Skype sessions serve anyone in the state of Arizona. Call (928) 232-9280 for more information today, and move toward a new beginning tomorrow!
Christian Counseling
Christian counseling promotes godliness, which is one of the virtues that come along with adopting positive values. You’ll get a clear understanding of Christian living as well as advice for living a virtuous life. As a Christian my faith informs how I approach the process of therapy.
My focus is on helping you to realize what God wants for your life and helping you to get there. So many things in life get in the way of our path toward wholeness and healing. Let me help guide you with God's help on that path towards being who God meant for you to be and as St Catherine of Sienna said you will set the world on fire.
About The Therapist
Kari Froelicher, MA, LPC
Mission Statement : My mission is to help families, couples and individuals find healthy solutions for problems in living and to gain back the freedom to become the persons God created them to be.
I am a licensed, masters level psychotherapist skilled in using a variety of techniques from a wide base of theories such as: Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Rational Emotive therapy, Existential therapies, Solution-Focused Brief therapy, Dialectical Behavioral therapy, Psychodynamic therapy, Affirmation Therapy and Gestalt. I have effectively used experiential techniques such as: Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, guided imagery, psychodrama, role playing, empty chair, art and EMDR.
I bring my effective communication and problem solving skills to individuals, groups, couples, families and organizations.
I have specialized in working with eating disorders, addictions, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, Borderline personality disorder, crisis pregnancy, post abortion, trauma and the Highly Sensitive Person.
I have also taught classes on spiritual growth, Dialectical Behavioral therapy skills training, and a variety of workshops focusing on issues such as: healthy boundaries, healthy vs. unhealthy relationships, self-esteem, communication skills, anger management, anxiety/stress management, defense mechanisms, shame and guilt, suffering, grief and loss, changing negative thought patterns, and dealing with emotions.
Testimonials From Real Clients
From Surviving to Thriving
From Surviving to Thriving
" When I first came to Kari I was "just surviving life". Now I am delighting in it as she taught me new tools to practice healthy, holy habits for every day life. I am so grateful."
From Surviving to Thriving
From Surviving to Thriving
From Surviving to Thriving
"When I first met Kari , life was a daily struggle and I was stressed about my future. My anxiety level was high and worry overwhelmed me. During my counseling sessions, Kari listened to me, encouraged me, and genuinely cared for my well being. Life soon began to take on a new meaning, even a sense of adventure! I learned what it meant to be a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP) and how to embrace it. I began sessions of EMDR and the results helped me to begin the process of restoration in my life. Now I wake up almost every day with renewed strength and look forward to God's blessings for me. My confidence in myself and my trust in the Lord is growing one day, and one decision at a time. Thank you Breaking Free Christian Counseling."
From Surviving to Thriving
“I have been attending DBT group for the last six months and I can honestly say that it has changed my life. I have suffered from anxiety and depression for much of my life and this is the first time that I feel that I am actually living the abundant life that God intended. The group has taught me to challenge negative thoughts, stay in the moment, and stop living my life as a victim. I have met people that I can relate to and that challenge me to challenge myself! I always leave group feeling uplifted and empowered.”
“You have given us the bicycle and taught us how to ride. It is up to us to pedal”
"So very grateful to Kari, when I first started speaking with Kari it was really hard for me to share anything. Neglect and abuse taught me nobody cared and it wasn’t going to help to talk about it. Kari helped me see my worth and give my fears a voice. Thank you and May God Bless You Abundantly"
“It was nice to be able connect with others in a supportive group. Knowing that I was not alone gave me hope for a more fulfilling life.”
I was pretty much imprisoned by fear, anxiety, guilty and what- ifs. I learned how to stop and analyze negative thoughts, accept certain limitations and be OK with who I am. Life isn't perfect, never will be and I'm good with that now. Thank you Kari for giving me the tools to deal with stress, guilt, anxiety, self- hate and to be thankful for and make the best of each day - to enjoy living in the present - to "Break Free". It took some hard work, but well worth it!
I have been seeing Kari on and off for several years now. I had been to many counselors over the years and never really felt I had "solved" my issues.
I was going through another hard moment in life when I met Kari. I am not a religious person and had my doubts about coming for Christian counseling. Never the less I made the apt. Am I glad I did. I wont sit here and tell you that everything was wonderful and perfect. As a matter of fact there was quite sometime I didn't even like Kari that much. To be honest, she pissed me off most of the time.
There was a moment one day when low and behold it clicked. I can't explain the feeling. The knowing. The OMG!!!!!
Kari never gave up on me, never. I was not the nicest client, let me tell you.
I still talk to Kari from time to time. Just to keep things in perspective.
I love this lady.
Thank you
Most Common Issues Dealt With
Depression & Anxiety
Depression, fear, and anxiety are some of the most common and uncomfortable emotions that we can experience at some point in our lives. Through counseling I am able to help you recover motivation, perspective, and joy that you once had in your life.
Trauma & PTSD
Many individuals can experience symptoms associated with painful and traumatic circumstances. Anxiety, fear, and hopelessness are a few emotions that can linger post traumatic events. I can help you overcome these symptoms and guide you through the process of grief and healing.
Marriage and Relationships
Marriage counseling can be beneficial to couples who are looking to strengthen their emotional connection, in all stages of their relationship. Therapy sessions are held with both couples and is a supportive place to discuss issues and solutions to better strengthen your relationship.
Other relationships are important in our lives also. Such as: family of origin, extended family, friendships, co-workers, bosses, in laws, clients or customers; all impact our lives. Good communication skills are critical.
Premarital Counseling
You put so much effort into planning your wedding; have you made plans for your marriage?
Breaking Free Christian Counseling premarital counseling helps couples start their journey together and to build a solid foundation for a good marriage.
How does pre-marital counseling work?
Premarital counseling is a set of counseling sessions designed to help a couple develop skills to form the basis of a strong marriage based on trust, commitment, co-operation, and passion. Couples who are preparing to marry will learn how to manage potential challenges before they take root. Sessions are focused on developing:
- Effective communication
- Constructive conflict resolution
- Trust
- Continued intimacy and passion
- Financial management
- Expectations for married life
- Boundaries
- Handling in-laws and the influence of family and friends
Premarital counseling: reduce your chance of divorce.
Couples who have participated in premarital counseling have reported an increased harmony and satisfaction in their relationship and an improved ability to resolve problems. Although every marriage faces challenges at some point, couples who have acquired the skills that enable them to surmount marital difficulties report a more fulfilling and satisfying married life.
What happens in premarital counseling?
The Breaking Free Christian Counseling premarital counseling formula includes an initial assessment of each couple's strengths and any challenges they already may already be experiencing in the relationship through the Prepare Enrich program. Couples learn to identify potential problems or any current relationship issues they may be facing and then the skills to deal with each issue.
Start your marriage off on the right foot! This is also a great wedding gift!
Family and Marriage Counseling
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IS YOUR FAMILY IN FREQUENT CONFLICT?
Breaking Free Christian Counseling offers family counseling sessions that help resolve the delicate and complex issues facing many families today. I will help to creates a safe and non-judgmental environment that allows each family member to express issues that may include:
- Divorce or separation
- Dealing with difficult teen behavior
- Addiction with one or more family members
- Step parenting and blended family issues
- Conflicting parenting styles in blended families
- Ongoing conflict between one or more family members
- Understanding a family member who is dealing with depression or other mental health issues
- Loss of job or financial difficulties within the family
- Death and loss in the family
Restore the Strength and Unity of Your Family.
Family therapy is designed to help identify, resolve and ultimately shift relationship patterns and create new healthy dynamics that benefit each member. The well-being of any individual is greatly affected by their home environment. Breaking Free Christian Counseling family counseling services provides professional guidance where families learn to communicate and resolve conflict respectfully and build upon the existing strengths of each member and resolve challenges.
What can I expect in our first session?
Your initial counseling session explores the primary issue and core struggles that prompted you to seek counseling. The therapist identifies and helps couples and families set precise goals to derive the maximum benefit from your counseling sessions. For premarital and married couples we then have you take an online comprehensive assessment in the privacy of your own home at your own pace that will help us to be able to guide you more effectively.
Should I Attend Alone
It is always best when couples and families attend sessions together, yet if one partner or a family member is unwilling, individual therapy may be recommended. Consult the therapist for professional guidance at (928) 232-9280 to find the best therapy program for you.
Main Modalities of Therapy
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Affirmation Therapy, and EMDR
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) is a form of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) that looks at how our thought and behavior patterns effect our emotions. Dialectical thinking, similar to its role in philosophy, is introduced as an alternative to intense, polarized emotions. Rather than reacting to events as either perfect or unbearable, clients are encouraged to recognize multiple viewpoints and bring them "into dialogue."
Mindfulness is taught as a method for becoming aware of one's actual, realistic experience in the moment, and separating it from fears about the future or rumination about the past.
DBT is a way of looking at life and situations that helps us to have less emotional suffering and better relationships. Four key areas are taught: Mindfulness, Interpersonal Effectiveness, Emotional Regulation, and Distress Tolerance.
DBT is effective in dealing with issues such as: anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorder, trauma, learning balance in life, stress management, pain management, unhealthy relationships and learning to build a life worth living. DBT skills can be taught in individual sessions but are more effectively learned in a group setting.
Affirmation Therapy is based on Drs. Conrad Baars and Anna Terruwe's theories that all humans need the love of other human beings in order to reveal our goodness to us and that one's ability to love is set free when that person sees himself or herself as good, worthwhile, and lovable. If a person has not been affirmed they are limited in their capacity to love themselves and others.
Affirmation therapy is a way of "being" with and for a client as opposed to "doing" something for the client. It is about revealing the goodness of the client to the client through the relationship with the therapist. This then allows for emotional, intellectual, and spiritual growth to occur.
The therapist teaches the client about the emotional life and provides opportunities for the client to express his or her emotions in an appropriate way. The therapist will also teach the client about irrational beliefs that get in the way of fully accepting oneself.
Affirmation Therapy is also based on an understanding of the emotional life in the Christian anthropology of St. Thomas Aquinas.
EMDR or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing is an integrative psychotherapy approach that has been extensively researched and proven effective for the treatment of trauma. EMDR is a set of standardized protocols that incorporates elements from many different treatment approaches. To date, EMDR therapy has helped millions of people of all ages relieve many types of psychological stress.
The amount of time the complete treatment will take depends upon the history of the client. Complete treatment of the targets involves a three pronged protocol (1-past memories, 2-present disturbance, 3-future actions), and are needed to alleviate the symptoms and address the complete clinical picture. The goal of EMDR therapy is to process completely the experiences that are causing problems, and to include new ones that are needed for full health. "Processing" does not mean talking about it. "Processing" means setting up a learning state that will allow experiences that are causing problems to be "digested" and stored appropriately in your brain. That means that what is useful to you from an experience will be learned, and stored with appropriate emotions in your brain, and be able to guide you in positive ways in the future. The inappropriate emotions, beliefs, and body sensations will be discarded. Negative emotions, feelings and behaviors are generally caused by unresolved earlier experiences that are pushing you in the wrong directions. The goal of EMDR therapy is to leave you with the emotions, understanding, and perspectives that will lead to healthy and useful behaviors and interactions.