Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a therapist for several pivotal reasons in my formative years. Some members of my broader family suffered from mental illness while others struggled all too regularly with the common stressors, we all encounter at times including grief, stress, and relational struggles. Sadly, do to the stigma associated with seeing a therapist - none of them sought help and at times self-medicated.
Being a naturally empathetic person with a heart for hurting people, I looked for a way to help others in similar situations. After working in an acute care hospital during the pandemic I began to see this reality with other families increasingly, especially those in helping professions. It is in this space wherein I'm most passionate, and most charged by the work that I do.
Scott Fleming has nearly twenty years of experience journeying with people who have reached their life’s peaks and those that have encountered their lowest valleys. His experience includes working in acute care hospitals, clinics, church counseling centers, and private practice. In addition, he’s held academic and leadership positions in various settings for his entire career. He is a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern and a seasoned Certified Pastoral Counselor.
Combining the latest best evidence-based practices, clinical expertise, and other psychological advancements with a personalized approach, he cares for patients experiencing the emotional, spiritual, and psychological toll that comes with a variety of conditions and situations. Scott strives to be person-centered yet solution-focused in his approach. He counsels from a relational counseling model, holding to the core belief that an individual cannot heal or grow outside the context of meaningful relationships.
Scott believes each person has a unique and sacred story justifying that treatment plans should be genuinely crafted with the client in mind. He has a gift for creating a safe place for people to process their pain and bond with his clients in meaningful ways. Scott subscribes to an eclectic, integrated approach customized to your unique story incorporating elements of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Adlerian theory, Narrative techniques, solution-focused results, and existential principles. He seeks to partner with every patient in their healing process - mutually collaborative and committed to the process.
Scott considers the counseling relationship to be sacred and not one to be taken lightly. It takes much courage to step into counseling, whether it’s your first time or the first time in a while. In meeting with a new counselor, clients often secretly hope that this relationship works out so they don’t have to start over or walk away from therapy. This truth is something Scott understands and values. Whatever brings you into counseling, Scott aims to cultivate a grace-filled environment where you will be met without judgment.
Scott specializes in working with clergy, healthcare professionals, first responders, educators, and military personnel.
Issues he treats include Anxiety, Coping Issues, Chronic Illness and Conditions, Depression, Family Conflict, Moral Injury, Compassion Fatigue / Burnout, Peer Relationships, Relationship Issues, Self Esteem, Stress, Caregiver Stress, and vicarious trauma.
Whether you’re encountering a bump in the road or a boulder in your path, Scott would be honored to walk with you toward your desired goals.