I am a flexible counselor, comfortable using an eclectic mix of interventions from multiple theoretical modalities to suit the unique needs of each client. My default approach is a mix of psychodynamic and cognitive interventions, with an overarching focus on the importance of narrative meaning-making in the emotional lives of clients. I have experience working with clients from a range of socioeconomic backgrounds and age groups, ages 18 and up. I offer couples and family counseling but am not a specialist in those fields. In my free time, I enjoy playing strategy board, card and computer games. I am an amateur poet and animal lover, as well as an avid camper.

What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?

In our first session together, we'll start with brief introductions, recording of pertinent background information, and an overview of the psychology behind the issue you seek help for. We will then dive into the details of the specific challenges you are facing. This will help me create a customized treatment plan for us to work through in follow-up sessions.

What treatment methods and tools do you utilize?

Psychodynamic Therapy: focuses on identifying and working through conflicting feelings, thoughts, traumatic residues and impulses within the client, with an emphasis on early life and formative experiences. Cognitive Therapy: focuses on identifying and altering self-defeating thoughts so that one's internal monologue becomes a source of assistance rather than a hindrance. Existential Therapy: focuses on meaning-making, values, mythology, religion, philosophy and overall life narrative. Executive Function Coaching: an adjunct to therapy designed to help clients with ADHD and other disorders which affect focus manage their symptoms, stay organized and improve their ability to complete life tasks.

Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.

I can quickly establish rapport, gather data for an initial diagnosis, explain symptoms and diagnoses to clients without using jargon, help clients conceptualize their own life in psychological terms, apply that concept to enhance self-knowledge, and apply that self-knowledge to affect change.

About Benjamin Frey