LPC, 25 years of experience
Let’s face it, life isn’t always easy. Just the fact that you’re reading this shows that you’re looking for some relief, some answers. The good news is that you don’t have to carry your burden alone. By sharing it, and learning more skillful ways of dealing with your life’s obstacles, you’ll soon realize that there truly is a light at the end of the tunnel. I have a profound respect for the strength of the human spirit and am often in awe of my own clients as they rise above what's holding them back and learn to find their own empowerment.
I do a complete psycho-social assessment, asking many questions, but don't worry, it's not scary. (If it is, we'll slow down on the questions.) I need this to become more familiar with who you are and what has happened in your life. Through the years, I've noticed that this part of the process is where the rapport begins, something that, in my view, is essential to our experience together. You may want to know more about me and there will be time for any questions you may have.
In the most laid-back and comfortable way, I offer you an accepting and completely non-judgmental arena from which you may learn about yourself, heal and enjoy your life again. I offer a ton of both clinical and life experiences, unconditional high regard, and a sense of humor--something that has helped me with my own battles. I also offer that elusive thing that will bring you back time and time again--hope.
There are no absolutes in this area. It's often a matter of chemistry and the ability to establish a rapport. For many of my clients, dissatisfaction with their relationships is often the reason they seek treatment. Often blind spots keep them from initiating and maintaining healthy relationships. With that said, I've historically helped those who are or who can become honest with themselves, and who can accept gentle feedback within the safety of solid therapeutic alliance.
CBT is one of the most empirically studied modalities and has been used successfully in decreasing symptoms of depression and anxiety for many. With CBT, we'll develop a toolbox that individuals can use long after therapy is finished. Simply put, while utilizing CBT, we will, together, begin to explore the thoughts that contribute to distressful feelings and unhelpful behaviors and learn to replace those thoughts with more healthy and helpful ones. This method does require homework to be most effective and can be combined with other modalities (like trauma treatment).
ACT is a behavioral therapy that centers in taking committed action. But not any action. Its action is guided by your core values, and uncovering what you want to stand for in life and contains a mindfulness element. The goal is to increase one's ability to develop psychological flexibility. So, there's a level of coaching that goes on in sessions but not before a therapeutic rapport has begun. is one of the most empirically studied modalities and has been used successfully in decreasing symptoms of depression and anxiety for many.
Interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT) is an attachment-focused treatment that centers on resolving interpersonal problems and symptomatic recovery. Along with CBT, IPT is recommended as a treatment of choice for depression but can be used for other mental disorders. Its based on the principle that relationships and life events impact mood, and that the reverse is also true. I've used this most successfully with older adults, particularly during grief after the loss of a loved one.
Much of my career has been dedicated to individuals who have experienced trauma. Trauma treatment, to me, is helping the client learn how to experience and enjoy life in the present.