Cindy Parlin, LCSW-C
She/Her/Hers
Works with Adults and Couples
TELEHEALTH ONLY
HEALING WORK
Therapy with Me: I am very committed to helping a client reach their goals. I feel strongly that, as therapists, we need to understand who the client is and what/why they want to make changes. I am not going to “tell” a client what they need to do but, instead, help them work through current challenges and help them reach where they want to go.
Impacting Identities: I am an older, cis-gender female. I have kids and grandkids with whom I am close and enjoy the time I spend with them. I love animals and have two dogs and five cats in my home. One cat feels he is a “great help” to therapy (that is his perception)!.
I feel informed and knowledgeable about: I have experiences with a number of different types of therapy. I do feel that having “homework” between sessions may help clients make the changes they want to see in their life. Sometimes I will recommend a book, journaling, and sometimes even artwork with the client’s input regarding what they feel they will get out of these exercises. I lean towards using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and, in addition, I will utilize Internal Family Systems (IFS) informed therapy using parts’ language.
I best work with clients who: Are motivated to delve into their lives and want to make changes if they feel something is not working right for them. I have a strong background working with people who have experienced loss, have a chronic illness, have a military history, and have experienced or are currently experiencing family issues.
I am not a good clinical fit for clients who: Have significant active substance abuse issues. I am not sure that I would be a good fit for those clients who are asking for help at the request of others rather than feeling internally motivated to enter therapy and make changes.
What makes me unique: This is a “second career” for me. My first career was in the United States Navy for 15 years. This allowed me to live and experience different cultures which has provided me with the ability to understand that everyone is different and has their own unique identity. It has also allowed me to have an understanding that how people present, is not always how they see themselves individually, in a family unit, or socially.
LEARNING AND GROWING
I try to learn something new each day, even if it is something little. I like telling jokes, like seeing someone smile because you recognize them.
Fun Facts/Resilience Building:
I love family, dogs, cats, aquariums, and to travel. I am technologically challenged despite my work in the Navy.
EDUCATION
-MSW University of Maryland School of Social Work
-BS Bowie State University
CERTIFICATIONS/TRAININGS
I currently have a Certified Clinical Trauma Provider Certification and really enjoy learning and exploring how trauma impacts our bodies and minds. I have been certified in Hospice and Palliative Care working in a hospital system.