Steve McLaughlin, PhD
I am an experienced clinical psychologist who has worked with people with many different issues and problems. I like what I do. I want to meet people where they are and provide a supportive, safe relationship where they can open up and talk about pressing issues and concerns. Together we can then find new approaches to cope with old problems.
I like to work with people who are open to looking into themselves and sharing that knowledge with me in a safe and supportive relationship.
I have experience working with older adults in a variety of settings. I received my PhD in Psychology from a school which also which also included training in Christian Theology and Ministry. However I have worked with clients with a variety of spiritual or non spiritual backgrounds.
First session
In our first session we will start with a brief introduction. Then we will start looking at who you are and the issues and problems you are facing. Also what you hope to gain from therapy. I will talk about my approach to providing help and assistance in coping with these problems. I will review ground rules for the therapy relationship. Next we will set our next appointment. If the therapy does not feel like a good fit for you we can discuss that as well.
Strengths
I am able to connect, understand, and support people with many kinds of issues and problems. I have over 30 years of experience working as a psychologist and I have worked in a wide variety of settings. I enjoy what I do and like to help people with their problems. I am not critical or quick to judge others. I enjoy getting to know people. I have worked with older adults as well. I have struggled and worked on my own issues so I understand the process from both sides. I like to laugh. I like to work with people who are open to looking into themselves and sharing that knowledge with me in a safe and supportive relationship. We can work together on yourself and your problems.
Ideal clients
I like to work with clients who are stuck but willing to open up and work on their issues. Primarily ages 30 and above. I use a client centered approach. I use acceptance , support, and accurate empathy to deal with personal problems and issues. Severe pathologies ( psychosis etc.) are not a good fit. Older adults are a fit. Evangelical Christians are a fit as this is my background as well. However I don’t scare people off with my background, taking clients as who they are. Someone who is a good fit with the client centered approach is good. Having people willing to open up about their life and issues is key for me. I like to get to know people! I share something of my own experience and life and struggles as it is relevant and appropriate.
Treatment methods
Person-centered (Rogerian)
Therapy is about a relationship that is warm, non-judging and with empathy that is on target. This helps a person explore pressing concerns and issues and come up with better ways to cope.
Faith-based therapy
Help someone draw upon spiritual resources to deal with issues and problems.
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
Feelings are a key part of who we are. Sorting through what is a tangle of at times conflicting or contrasting emotions, frees up energy for our lives, present and future.
Location
Virtual sessions