We all face challenges in life. Sometimes those challenges overwhelm our natural coping abilities. Sometimes    relationships feel unmanageable. Sometimes habits have become addictions. Sometimes we get so worried about the kids, work, LIFE that we stop sleeping, eating or exercising. Sometimes things feel so dark it feels hard to go on. Sometimes we just lose enthusiasm for things we used to enjoy. Sometimes we just feel worthless and hopeless.

I find it a privilege - and personally enriching - to journey with people not just back to some point of stability, but forward to a new wholeness and well-being. I believe even the most difficult situations, as painful as they are in the moment, can be launching pads for growth and healing. I have found a number of paths helpful in that journey, including:
  • Cognitive-behavioral techniques: changing our thoughts to change our feelings and experience.
  • Positive Psychology: a new science that focuses on proven techniques that enhance well-being or happiness.
  • Mindfulness: an ancient science with techniques to help us “show up” for our lives and really be fully present, here and now.
  • Family systems theory: to better understand and change old patterns in our families.
  • A holistic approach ( mind and body) in utilizing the latest understandings of the brain and how to focus our awareness to literally change our brain and improve our lives. And many others including: energy techniques (EFT), communication skills, addictions/relapse prevention, and deep emotional work to  transforming earlier traumatic experiences.
  • Skills enhancement:  increasing one’s skills is sometimes all that is needed to make a positive change in life- communications skills, anger management, stress reduction, time management skills are a few examples that I may be able to help you with.

Counseling is a collaborative relationship with one who wants to take those extra steps toward a more fulfilling life, career or intimate relationship. 

I am an involved counselor who provides feedback and interacts with her clients to promote total wellness. Clients may work short term or long term as we contract for what is best. Many clients are surprised that the process is so interactive and useful. Many take notes. My job is to help ground you as you work through your issues, providing clarity and insight. My philosophy is that the therapy sessions belong to the client.

I have an varied background using several skills and techniques. I use Light Therapy and EMDR for trauma recovery. As a mediator, I help people negotiate the conflicts that arise in daily life.

There are a variety of concerns that bring people to my office. Some are seeking to learn skills that will assist them in their daily lives, such as learning stress management, communication or other skills to better their lives while others are seeking help with relationships; romantic or family. Many seek to work through problems that have compounded over the years.

I offer a relaxed, confidential setting in which we can work together to meet your goals. Each person is unique and a 'one size fits all' approach does not work. I tailor my therapeutic approach to what will best meet your needs. working from a strengths perspective.

Whether it is for you, your child, or your family, the decision to seek outside assistance is difficult. It can be overwhelming to finally make an appointment. When you finally reach out for help you should not have to wait. Contact me today and we can set an appointment.
Qualifications:
Years in Practice: 30+ years
LCSW (licensed clinical social worker)
LACAD (licensed alcohol & drug counselor)
LPCC (licensed professional counselor)
Certified New Mexico Continuing Education Provider

Recent Work Experience

Private Practice:
Ann Anderson Counseling & Consulting:  November 1, 2013 to present.

Clinical Supervision:
August 2013- 2024
Providing supervision to non-independently licensed clinicians in a group format, 2 afternoons a week.  

Highlands University Field Consultant:
August 2014- present: Working with Interns from Highlands University in Roswell to identify practicum sights and aid in the completion of the learning agreements
              
HONORS/AWARDS/PUBLICATIONS
New Mexico State University Social Services Alumni Award of the Year 2002

Recipient of the Governor’s Award for Outstanding New Mexico Women, awarded by New Mexico Commission on the Status of Women   1997

Publication: "Court ordered family mediation: A brief overview." Topics in Family Psychology and Counseling, Vol 1 No. 2, April 1992. 

COMMUNITY SERVICE
Community and State Boards list available on request.