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Anne Baldwin
About
Hello, my name is Anne Baldwin; and I live in the Western Mountains of North Carolina, between the Georgia and Tennessee lines. I am a licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, and received my Masters Degree from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Over the past 30 years, I have worked with individuals and groups in a variety of settings, including schools, agencies, medical clinics, and in private practice.
My desire to work with neurodivergent clients came early in my career, after being presented with the opportunity to offer behavioral health therapy for a young man who had been diagnosed as "profoundly" autistic. He had a history of aggressive behaviors, and was nonverbal at the time that I met him. After wading through his lengthy history, reviewing the rules and guidelines pertaining to my own wellbeing, I quickly realized that the expectation was for him to conform to society's norms. I saw it differently; and set up a treatment plan focused on his uniqueness and personality. It didn't take long for him to choose to speak. He and I journeyed through three years of abundantly creative exploration and healing together.
I've carried the experience of my first neurodivergent client through all these years, having learned that the most important approaches I can offer in my practice are respect, acceptance of where you are in your life, and emotional and psychological safety.
My belief is that all of us have the Power to overcome challenges and successfully have a self-driven life. I am excited about working with you, and walking with you on your journey of self-exploration. Ultimately, and this is important, our partnership/relationship is all about You. You're the only one who knows what you want and/or need. I'm just the guide. You choose the path, and I will travel it with you.
