Lance Oldham MS, LCMHC

I earned a Master of Science degree in 2006 and became a fully Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in 2008. I have worked in private practice, community mental health agencies, administrative roles, and a decade as a high school counselor at a private school for students with ADHD and learning disabilities. In this role, I supported teachers, staff, students, and their families. I prioritize the relationship between counselor and client, aiming to create a secure and supportive space for open communication. I consider myself a co-pilot, gently guiding you towards your desired goals, even when encountering minor detours along the way. Just as learning a musical instrument, playing pickleball, or studying a new language requires practice and dedication, counseling demands consistent effort and intentionality. Together, we will develop personalized strategies to practice between sessions to address anxiety, focus, and other concerns related to your goals and self-growth.

I'm a big Star Wars fan (the original trilogy). I see therapy and self-growth as a kind of Jedi mind training. In the Empire Strikes Back, Yoda used the force to raise Luke's X-Wing out of the swamp. Luke said to Yoda, "I don't believe it." Yoda replied, "And that is why you fail." It's this. These kinds of negative beliefs and perceptions of ourselves and others that is often the source of our distress and the barrier to self-growth. While we will not be magically learning how to lift objects off the ground, we can become more Jedi like by learning and practicing how to be more mindful and aware. As we grow our awareness, we can step back and watch ourselves think and act instead of being caught up in our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. We can then learn to undo the habits and let go of the negative self beliefs that are not serving us well. Clearing the mind and being more present helps us more easily implement newly learned skills and strategies, one small step at a time.