In 2012 I began my grad school application essay by saying that it had taken me 62 years to discover what I wanted to be when I grew up. I have now been practicing for about 10 years and I bring to my practice a love for learning and exploring, combined with a steadfast belief in not only the ability, but the right of people to grow and heal. I use techniques from a number of therapeutic modalities, and even pull from my own life experience and my training as a coach. I prefer whenever possible to be client-led because I believe that we each have the answers we need within ourselves, and that you are the expert on you. That means my job is to develop a trusting relationship between us, to listen deeply, and reflect with you, encouraging and guiding you to reach your goals. I find this to be the most exciting and rewarding work I have ever done, and look forward to a collaboration based on who you are and what you need.

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

For me, a first session is a chance to start the process of getting to know one another. I will likely say just a few words about my philosophy of therapy, emphasizing the elements of trust and collaboration. I generally do not read any of the intake assessment material you may have completed until after our first meeting, as I would like to hear from you, in the present, why you are here and what you would like to get out of our work together. I will usually apologize for taking handwritten notes, which I consider important for continuity. Toward the end of the first session I will address confidentiality as well as things I believe are necessary for positive outcomes, including consistency and mutual respect, which includes my availability beyond our session times. I invite any questions you may have, as I believe in explicit and clear understandings and agreements. And I generally end that first session by inviting you to determine where you want to start. Don't worry if you don't know. We will work together to develop a therapeutic plan that meets your initial needs, and will evaluate and modify that plan as we move forward.

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

I have always been a good listener, and through my training as a therapist and a coach I have developed the ability to listen deeply and without judgment. I believe that learning is lifelong, and that change is always possible, though not always painless. One of my greatest strengths is my ability to model healthy boundaries, and to assist my clients in developing their own. This includes knowing that you deserve autonomy and self-compassion. I will always tell you if I don't have an answer, and then will do the research to find the answer, because I believe there is always an answer. I respect and utilize techniques from many therapeutic modalities, and will work with you to tailor an individual treatment plan that allows us to use interventions from any number of theoretical orientations; that is, what works best for you and your issues.

About Diane Loffmin