I have worked in the Mental Health field for over 30 years in a variety of settings, such as at a Group home for the Chronically Mentally Ill, Family Court, an IOP, and a few substance use disorder treatment centers. These experiences have guided the way I work people, and I continue to learn and grow from my clients. I also spent several years working in a women's center
The first session is the intake in which I explore the nature of the struggles, how long and chronic these struggles have been. I ascertain the client's family history, past trauma and history of substance use. I try to get a sense of what the person's needs and wants are regarding therapy.
I think what helps me most is to find ways I can relate to the client, based on my own experiences
My clients ideally have day to day struggles, some of which stem from early Trauma, poor Attachment figures, and addiction challenges. My clients would have some .motivation to change, and would have most of the answers within them.
I believe a Compassionate approach is the better way to connect with clients because it is non judgemental
Psychodynamic theory explores past early experiences to understand current thoughts, feelings and behaviors, usually stemming from our early attachment figures