As a therapist specializing in systems theory and a person-centered approach, I want to introduce myself and share how I can support family members of individuals struggling with addiction and anxiety. My name is Lainie, and I have dedicated my practice to helping families navigate complex challenges while fostering understanding, healing, and resilience. In working with families impacted by addiction, I approach therapy from a systems perspective, which means I view the family as an interconnected unit where each member's thoughts, emotions, and behaviors influence and are influenced by others. Through this lens, I aim to help family members recognize and address unhealthy patterns of communication, roles, and dynamics that may be contributing to the addiction cycle. Additionally, I integrate person-centered principles into my practice, emphasizing empathy, unconditional positive regard, and genuine acceptance for each family member's unique experiences and perspectives. I believe that creating a nonjudgmental and supportive space is essential for promoting open dialogue, trust, and collaboration within the family system. For family members of individuals struggling with anxiety, I use systems theory to explore how anxiety impacts the family as a whole and how family dynamics may contribute to or alleviate anxiety symptoms. By helping family members understand the interconnected nature of their experiences, we can work together to identify strengths, coping strategies, and communication skills that promote a healthier and more resilient family system. Overall, my approach combines the systemic understanding of family dynamics with the person-centered focus on individual experiences and needs. I strive to empower family members to communicate effectively, set boundaries, support each other, and navigate challenges with compassion and resilience. Together, we can create a therapeutic journey that promotes healing, growth, and positive change within the family system.

What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?

In the first session with me, clients can expect a warm and welcoming atmosphere where they are encouraged to share their thoughts, feelings, and concerns freely. I prioritize establishing a strong rapport from the beginning, so the session will start with introductions and a discussion about the client's reasons for seeking therapy. This initial conversation allows me to understand their unique situation, including their experiences with family dynamics related to addiction and/or anxiety. During the session, I will actively listen to the client's experiences with empathy and without judgment. I create a safe space where clients can express themselves openly, knowing that their thoughts and feelings will be validated and respected. This focus on active listening and empathy helps to build trust and a sense of connection between the client and myself, setting the stage for productive therapeutic work. Given my approach rooted in systems theory and person-centered principles, we will likely explore the client's family dynamics in depth. This may involve discussing relationships, communication patterns, roles within the family, and the challenges they are facing in supporting their loved one. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for identifying areas of improvement and developing targeted therapeutic goals. Throughout the session, we will collaborate on setting goals and objectives for therapy. This collaborative process ensures that the client's priorities and desired outcomes are central to our work together. I may introduce therapeutic approaches or techniques that align with systems theory and person-centered therapy, such as exploring family roles, communication strategies, or practicing self-awareness exercises. The first session will conclude with a summary of our discussion, any insights gained, and a plan for future sessions. Clients will leave with a clearer understanding of how therapy can support them in navigating family challenges related to addiction and/or anxiety, as well as a sense of hope and empowerment for the therapeutic journey ahead.

Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.

My greatest strengths as a provider stem from several key aspects of my approach to therapy. One of these strengths lies in my deep commitment to empathy and active listening. I prioritize creating a safe and empathetic space where clients feel genuinely heard, validated, and supported. This allows for a strong therapeutic alliance to develop, which is foundational for meaningful progress in therapy. Another strength is my collaborative approach. I firmly believe in working alongside clients to identify their unique therapeutic goals and objectives. This collaborative process ensures that the focus of therapy is always aligned with the client's needs and aspirations, empowering them to take an active role in their healing journey. Additionally, my understanding of systems theory is a significant strength. This perspective enables me to delve into the complexities of family dynamics, roles, and communication patterns. By examining how these factors interplay, I can offer insights and interventions that address underlying issues contributing to challenges related to addiction and anxiety within the family system. Integrating person-centered principles into my practice is another notable strength. Upholding concepts like unconditional positive regard and genuine empathy forms the bedrock of a trusting therapeutic relationship. This fosters an environment where clients feel safe to explore their experiences, emotions, and vulnerabilities without fear of judgment. I also excel in employing a goal-oriented approach to therapy. By helping clients define clear and measurable goals, we can track progress and make adjustments as needed to ensure that our sessions are purposeful and effective in facilitating positive change. Lastly, my strength-based perspective is instrumental in recognizing and amplifying the strengths and resilience of clients and their families. This approach empowers clients to leverage their existing resources and capabilities as they navigate challenges and strive for personal growth and improved family dynamics. In summary, my greatest strengths as a provider lie in my ability to cultivate empathy and active listening, collaborate effectively with clients, apply systems theory insights, uphold person-centered principles, maintain a goal-oriented focus, and embrace a strength-based perspective. These strengths collectively contribute to a therapeutic experience that is tailored, empowering, and conducive to meaningful and sustainable tra

Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.

My ideal client is typically a family member or members of an individual grappling with addiction and/or anxiety. They come seeking support, guidance, and understanding as they navigate their loved one's challenges and their effects on the family system. My ideal client values collaboration, demonstrating openness to exploring family dynamics and a willingness to work with me in understanding and addressing any unhealthy patterns or dynamics that may be contributing to their loved one's struggles. This collaborative spirit fosters a sense of shared responsibility and empowers them to actively engage in the therapeutic process. Furthermore, my ideal client seeks understanding. They are driven to gain insights into how their family system influences or mitigates the challenges faced by their loved one with addiction and/or anxiety. This curiosity and desire for comprehension provide a solid foundation for meaningful exploration and discovery within our therapeutic relationship. Empathy is a core value for my ideal client. They appreciate and benefit from my empathetic and nonjudgmental approach, allowing them to feel heard, validated, and supported. This empathetic environment creates a safe and nurturing space where they can freely express their thoughts, emotions, and concerns. Moreover, my ideal client is motivated for change. They are open to learning new communication skills, establishing healthy boundaries, and implementing strategies that foster healing and resilience within the family. This readiness for change reflects their dedication to improving both their well-being and that of their loved ones. Lastly, my ideal client values personal growth. They are interested in their own self-development and are willing to engage in self-reflection and self-awareness exercises to enhance their well-being and relationships within the family system. This focus on personal growth aligns with the person-centered approach, highlighting the significance of individual experiences and growth within the family context. In summary, my ideal client is someone ready to actively participate in therapy, collaborate in exploring family dynamics, seek understanding and empathy, embrace change, and prioritize personal growth for themselves and their loved ones.

About Lainie Phelps