I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) living in Arizona and licensed in Arizona and Utah. More than two decades ago, I wrote one of the first books attempting to apply the insights of Stoicism to modern life (Don’t Worry, Be Stoic: Ancient Wisdom for Troubled Times). The ensuing years have witnessed a veritable Stoic renaissance, with best-selling books such as How to Think Like a Roman Emperor and Ryan Holiday’s mega-popular Daily Stoic website. But reading alone will not make you a Stoic, nor wishing it to be so. By integrating modern psychotherapeutic techniques with ancient wisdom, I help clients apply the insights of Stoicism to the problems they are facing.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
Think of the first session like a first date. We are getting to know each other. By the end of the first session you will have a good idea about how I work and how I might be of use to you, and I will let you know whether I think I am the right therapist for you.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
I have the capacity to integrate ancient wisdom with modern psychotherapy. Several of the most successful modern psychotherapies--Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Mindfulness--are either explicitly founded on or deeply integrate Stoic wisdom. But why listen to the tribute band when you can interact with the real deal?
Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.
While the ideal client need not necessarily have familiarity with Stoicism, they should be open to exploring its fundamental tenet-that it is our mind and nothing else that determines the quality of our lives-and demonstrate a willingness to integrate this insight into their life.
About Peter Vernezze
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VirtualMy treatment methods
Mindfulness-Based Therapy
Mindfulness is the foundation of my practice. No change can occur without an awareness of one's situation and how current thought and behavior patterns are perpetuating suffering.
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
ACT is my main therapeutic tool, which advocates a radical approach to conditions such as anxiety and depression. The point is not symptom reduction (although that may well happen). Instead, the goal is to come into a different relationship with these experiences.
Cognitive Processing (CPT)
Cognitive Processing Therapy is the most evidenced based trauma therapies we have, which is why the American Psychological Association rates it as "strongly recommended." (EMDR, by contrast, is conditionally recommended). I am on the National Provider Registry for CPT (www.cptforptsd.com)
Internal Family Systems (IFS)
I have advanced training in Internal Family Systems. It offers a unique way into the self and a healing way to make peace with our past.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
CBT is the most evidenced based psychotherapeutic intervention we have. For all of its shortcomings, it offers fundamental insights into the human condition and a key to how we can change.