Life is difficult. We labor at often unsatisfying occupations and manage only to keep our heads above water. Romantic relationships deliver as much heartbreak as happiness. We suffer setbacks, as do those we love. The few pleasures we encounter offer only temporary respite. Ultimately, as the Buddha reminds us, we are all overtaken by old age, sickness, and death. Amidst these realities, the modern psychopharmaceutical attempt to address natural reactions to the human condition such as anxiety and depression by dispensing medication seems like the proverbial band aid solution. What is needed is surgery for the soul. World wisdom traditions such as Stoicism and Buddhism and philosophies such as Existentialism offer an alternative (and complementary) healing pathway, and many of their insights have been integrated into modern psychotherapeutic interventions. As a philosopher and psychotherapist, I combine ancient insight with evidenced-based practices such as ACT and CBT.
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.
The problems we confront today—anxiety, depression, trauma, grief—are as old as humanity. So is the wisdom that will help you deal with them. As a philosopher and psychotherapist, I combine ancient insight with evidence-based practices such as ACT and CBT.
Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.
The ideal client might be described a spiritual but not religious, someone who has familiarity with ancient wisdom traditions or is interested is seeing how they could be applied to the problems of their lives.
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.