LICSW, 20 years of experience
New to Grow
Roy has been working in the social work field since receiving his MSW in 1994. He has worked as a medical social worker, a case manager, and has over 20 years experience as a clinical social worker. His practice has included working with people with chronic medical illnesses, those having co-occurring substance abuse issues, PTSD, domestic violence, and the full range of life's adjustments. Roy enjoys working with adult individuals and couples using DBT and CBT, within a person-centered approach to therapy.
For those having been in therapy before, they know that there can be lots of questions, many that have been asked and answered before. To start, many people want the space to share their concerns, fears and challenges. This is the start of a relationship and many need that first session to just share. Information will be gathered over time when it becomes clearer that a trusting relationship is developing.
This therapy is a person-centered approach and, for me, this allows the client to make determinations about the speed and depth of sessions. This is a collaborative approach, believing that the client will know what works for them and, with a bit of feedback, will help them set realistic goals. Results are measured by an individual's feelings/beliefs that they are more competent to manage decisions, relationships and life's challenges.
Clients come to therapy for many reasons and at many stages of their challenges. Often they will have specific goals, but, as often, they are questioning what to do and where to start. Therapy at its heart is the development of a relationship that one learns can be trusting and accepting. There is no right way to do this, even with years of experience. Relationships are dynamic and should be treated with the respect that each individual deserves.
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy works alongside Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Its main goals are to teach people how to live in the moment, develop healthy ways to cope with stress, regulate their emotions, and improve their relationships with others. A main focus is on the use mindfulness and learning acceptance.
Couples counseling can be very effective in addressing challenges together. Any individual changes will then become part of changes within the relationship. Challenges can be worked on together and feedback can be provided in real time; each hearing and sharing together.
ACT works well within the focus of DBT as a way to address issues of guilt and shame; being able to observe, through mindfulness, thought processes that hinder self-esteem and may be the product of longstanding judgements.