Rate David West

Welcome! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of South Carolina. I received my master's degree in social work with a speciality in working with adults and families from The University of Alabama in 2012. I've worked in both outpatient clinic settings as well as inpatient hospital settings for the VA hospital system and in community mental health. For the past 2 years I have coordinated a college outreach/counseling program which has extended my clinical experience to not only adults with families, but young adults as well. During my professional career I have had the opportunity to work with individuals experiencing difficulties in a wide variety of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse, grief, as well as relationship issues and family turmoil. While my primary position has been working with veterans I have also had the opportunity to work with teens as well in various settings. I've served on multiple committees related to the development and implementation of treatment methods and I believe I have a good understanding of the most effective treatment options for a variety of emotional struggles.

My treatment approach starts with helping the individuals I work with establish a good comfort level with me. I believe that showing my clients they have my unconditional positive regard and respect is the best way to begin a trusting and healthy treatment relationship. It is important to me to help those individuals I work with begin to identify positives about themselves and utilize these strengths to begin to overcome the struggles and barriers life has given them. I am certified in various treatment modalities that provide me with the ability to treat multiple issues in ways that result in proven success. I make an effort to be warm and open with those I work with in hopes that the environment is as welcoming as possible and fosters good/positive dialogue each and every session. It is important to me that my clients feel we are progressing toward better emotional stability so I will always ensure clear goals and guidelines are established by the client to guide us along our journey together. What is most important to me as a provider is that the client has as much control as possible in the treatment setting. It is not for me to decide what another person's treatment goals should be; I fully believe in patient centered care.

In terms of availability, I check and respond to messages multiple times daily. I am available for sessions at nearly any time between 8am-6pm during week days, but can absolutely work with later appointment times or weekends if this is what works best for clients. I completely understand that jobs, family, and other life issues can get in the way of scheduling appointments during "regular hours" so I want to do all I can to provide the help needed whenever it is needed.

I look forward to working with you!