LCSW, 30 years of experience
New to Grow
I have more than thirty years of experience in individual and couples counseling. I take a solution- focused direct approach, working to develop positive ways of thinking and reacting to a variety of situations, including life transitions. Although at this point in my career, I am exclusively in private practice, over the years I have been a school social worker. I have worked with students and the parents of children and adults with special needs, particularly as it related to future planning. I have also done both foster care and adoption homestudies both in the public and private sectors.
My first session includes why the client is seeking therapy now and what they hope to gain from therapy. I ask for background information to gain a fuller understanding about what contributed to who they are today and its impact. I ask where they're gotten stuck.I integrate a variety of treatment modalities to fit the needs of the client.
My approach is direct, practical and solution focused. I am actively involved in sessions. My clients respond well to this approach and more than once, a client has said, "I wish I could keep you in my back pocket."
My ideal client is a motivated one who is open about their thoughts and feelings. I prefer to work with clients who may be having difficulty with successful communication with significant people in their lives. My goal is to help the client better manage stress and sharpen their ability to reflect on their communication style. I encourage individuals, couples and parents to reflect on alternative ways to communicate in order to build stronger and more fulfilling realtionships. I help clients set up realistic goals.
Challenge negative thought patterns and replace them with positive ones. Focus on strengths and ways to improve communication.
We build solutions rather than dwelling on problems. Identify strengths and build from there, ask clients how they got stuck and we work on ways to get unstuck.