Welcome! And congratulations on taking this courageous big step towards improving your life. I know that is no small feat. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who received my Masters Degree from NYU in 2003. I have worked in various healthcare settings with individuals, groups and couples of all ages. I work with adults struggling with common issues like stress, interpersonal conflict, low self-esteem, feeling overwhelmed and coping with loss. A lot of my clinical experience is with older populations struggling with issues of aging, retirement, finding new purpose and meaning in life, areas of loss and living with chronic conditions. I utilize a broad range of mind & body approaches to help uncover behaviors & patterns in thinking that are reinforcing negative feelings that are preventing you from living your best life. I am right by your side every step of the way working collaboratively to address your individual challenges in the context of your unique life to move towards self compassion, self discovery and healing.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
Our first session is an opportunity for us both to get to know one another and for you to share what's bringing you to treatment. Together we will address the format for therapy and establish some individual goals for your needs. We will come up with a plan and establish the frequency of meeting. This is a chance for you to not only share about yourself but to gain a better understanding of how I conduct my practice.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
Studies have illustrated success in therapy derives from a strong relationship between client and therapist and it can be the greatest predictor in positive client outcomes. With every client I focus on creating a safe, judgement-free space to make you as comfortable as possible when sharing. It of utmost importance to me that my clients feel respected, understood and supported through their therapy journey. I strive to make all feel welcome and accepted as they are. These are your most private and important matters you are working on with me so trust in me and our professional relationship is paramount. I encourage regular discussions of your progress and welcome any feedback on the process and how I can best help you. This is YOUR time so I am continuously working to foster communication that is authentic and open.
About Alison Piller
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VirtualMy treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy has proven to be very successful with my clients struggling with depression and anxiety. This modality can assist you in improving your mood and managing challenges by identifying & modifying your thinking behind it. Our thoughts, feelings and behaviors are all connected and by working on adjusting your thoughts, you can reduce unpleasant feelings and instill feelings of hopefulness. I like to provide homework assignments, handouts and visuals to enhance comprehension and effective application of this approach
Grief Therapy
The notion of loss is a universal one and something we must all face. This is not limited to death but rather any significant life change such as moving, graduating, divorce, loss of job/retirement and a loss of what once was. Further, all losses ignite thoughts of past losses. Through the application of this intervention we would examine how your losses were experienced, early messages received about the loss and their position in relation to the stages of grief. I find this work relevant for so many and the ability to address it in this new context can help mitigate feelings of being stuck.
Mindfulness-Based Therapy
We live in a busy, face-paced and over stimulated world. That coupled with daily responsibilities and unresolved issues we’re holding can make it challenging to focus our attention on any one particular thing at a time. As a result we are not giving anything 100% of our focus. This often comes into play with those suffering from anxiety, PTSD and depression. This therapy focuses on increasing awareness of the present moment instead of allowing our mind to concentrate on the past for anticipated fears. It involves taking a non-judgmental stance and uses relaxation and guided breathing exercises in order to gain more control of your response to triggers. Many find they are able to diffuse their unpleasant feelings, achieve more clarity and respond in less emotionally reactive ways. Mindfulness-based interventions are associated with a decrease in negative patterns of thinking such as rumination, increased attention and self- control, improved physical health and overall improved quality of life.
Positive Psychology
This modality highlights one's individual strengths in order to create a meaningful life, full of purpose. We tap into your positive experiences (such as joy, inspiration, love) and your individual positive attributes (such as resiliency, gratitude and empathy) to help you feel more in control, confident and hopeful. This optimism generated can result in improved relationships, enhanced satisfaction from life and overall greater well being.