Andrea Coyle
I am a licensed psychologist with many years of experience helping individuals, families and couples navigate life’s challenges and discover their capacity for meaningful change. I believe that empathy, accessibility and a genuine connection are essential to a successful therapeutic relationship.
I believe that coming from a large, close family allowed me to experience the value of understanding and expressing emotions honestly and directly.
My goal is always to provide a welcoming, supportive and nonjudgmental environment where clients feel comfortable being themselves. My philosophy is that most people have a sense of what they would like to change in their lives, even when they are uncertain about how to accomplish it. I see therapy as a collaborative process that helps bridge the gap between knowing what you want and discovering how to achieve it.
First session
I encourage clients to ask questions, express concerns, and share their thoughts and possible fears about the therapeutic process. I try to establish a warm and welcoming environment even when they session is virtual. I usually express that meaningful change is not always easy. My role in the first session is to lay the groundwork for providing encouragement , understanding, perspective and guidance. I hope that all new clients leave their first session with a willingness and a sense of comfort to explore unfamiliar territory.
Strengths
I am, by nature, an optimist. Throughout my career, I have never lost my enthusiasm for the work I do or my appreciation for the remarkable changes people can make in their lives. It remains deeply rewarding to witness clients gain insight, overcome obstacles, and move toward greater fulfillment and emotional well-being. I believe that coming from a large, close family allowed me to experience the value of understanding and expressing emotions honestly and directly. Honesty and trust within the therapeutic relationship allows clients to explore new paths in their life’s journey.
Ideal clients
My ideal client is someone who is interested in making positive changes in their life, even if they are not entirely sure where to begin. I recognize that seeking therapy can be challenging and trust and comfort do not necessarily develop during the first session. Building a therapeutic relationship is a process, and I believe it is important to allow that relationship to develop naturally, at a pace that feels comfortable for each individual, family or couple. Taking that first step in arranging an appointment indicates a willingness to try the process!
Treatment methods
Person-centered (Rogerian)
It is difficult to select one method of therapy from the list! I chose person centered/humanistic treatment as my main approach as it can encompass many strategies for growth. I believe that helping my clients discover their own personal resources in an environment that feels safe, allows them to apply what they learn to their daily lives. It is important to me that my clients feel heard and safe in the therapeutic relationship so they can surmount the road blocks that keep them from realizing their full potential.
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
ACT is a more structured approach that teaches acceptance of uncomfortable thoughts and feelings while learning to replace them with more positive choices. This method is helpful in learning to maintain and enhance relationships with oneself and others.
Internal Family Systems (IFS)
This is used in family therapy to address the structure of the family that is leading to undesired outcomes.
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Licensed in
- ConnecticutLicense 8.001513