Today we’d like to introduce you to Jennifer Godlove. She shared her story with us below.
Dr. Godlove started her career as a Clinical Psychologist with the Federal Bureau of Prisons in 2008. She has worked with Death Row inmates in Terre Haute, IN, inpatient psychiatric inmates in Lexington, KY, inmates participating in residential drug treatment in Butner, NC, and was the Chief Psychologist at an institutional complex of all custody levels in Forrest City, AR. She currently works full-time for FBOP Central Office as a Mental Health Treatment Coordinator. She started her private practice in 2020 offering individual therapy to adults in her community.
Most of her life’s work has been focused on restoring mental health to those incarcerated preparing them to be citizens of her community. She is now focusing on the mental health of fellow citizens in her community who are struggling emotionally or behaviorally with life’s stressors. Her training and theoretical orientation is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), an evidence-based intervention that aims to reduce symptoms impacting one’s daily functioning. She has been a hostage negotiator for 8 years. She cross-trains with the police departments in the surrounding area but primarily serves as a National Cadre of trainers across the FBOP.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
COVID-19 was a barrier to beginning a therapy practice, however with the advancement in Telehealth the online formatting of treatment has been effective. Joyful Guidance receives calls daily for requests for in-person treatment, but many patients are open to the online format.
No waiting rooms or fighting traffic/parking to get to your appointment. Not every patient is a good fit for virtual sessions, so we have a screening process for that. The American Psychological Association found that online therapy can be just as effective as in-person treatment.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years of experience in various clinical settings. Specializing in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I help individuals challenge negative patterns and develop healthier coping strategies. With empathy and compassion, I create a safe space for healing and growth. I believe in actively involving clients in their treatment journey and building a strong therapeutic alliance.
To enhance the healing process, I will soon introduce to our practice, Addie, an adorable Chesapeake Bay Retriever. Addie will undergo training to become a certified therapy dog, providing comfort and support to our valued patients. Her intelligence, loyalty, and natural empathy will make her an indispensable asset to our practice, promoting emotional well-being and bringing joy to all.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
Throughout my journey, I have been fortunate to encounter numerous professors and training directors who have generously shared their wisdom and guidance with me. Their collective influence has been invaluable in shaping my professional growth.
Moreover, I have been incredibly fortunate to have the unwavering support and encouragement of my colleagues who actively work in the field. Among these incredible individuals, two names stand out: Dr. Brandi Reynolds and Dr. Dennis Profitt. These exceptional mentors have been by my side, supporting me every step of the way, and their impact on my development cannot be overstated.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://joyfulguidancememphis.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joyfulguidance/
