Jan Stillpass
I have over 25 years of experience working with individuals and couples, adolescents and adults. I passionately believe in the inner wonder and strength within each of us, the potential we all have for creating the life we want and I offer a variety of tools and strategies to help facilitate that meaningful journey of self discovery and empowerment. I provide a safe, collaborative, nonjudgmental space that holds the tears and laughter,the fear and relief, the sadness and joy. Together with sensitivity, intention, respect and humility, I partner with clients to help identify and challenge unhelpful core beliefs and develop individualized coping skills that cultivate self compassion, resiliency and direction.
First session
I use the initial session to primarily gather information about why someone is seeking treatment and what expectations and goals the person has, answer questions about the process and explain how I work, and most especially to establish “fit” because I feel that real growth comes from a genuine, mutually respectful partnership.
Strengths
Although I have always enjoyed a variety of referral sources…..physicians, colleagues, school counselors, etc., the majority of my clients, after I became established years ago, have come from current and past clients. I think that this is not due to any particular wand I carry but is more reflective of the emphasis I place on creating a healthy therapeutic alliance. I listen with more than my ears, I empower accountability and I don’t ask more from someone than I am willing to ask of myself. I am comfortable with what I know but equally comfortable with continuing to learn which is precisely one of the things I value most about the adventurous world of therapy…..each journey , each tapestry, each individual is unique but when all is said and done, we are all a work in progress
Ideal clients
Although I do love a challenge, I particularly enjoy working with individuals and couples ….adolescents and adults who are self reflective and insightful, who demonstrate a willingness to be vulnerable and curious and who, in taking the process seriously, show a genuine desire to grow through it, embracing the work required. I value someone who wants to be an active participant rather than a passive recipient in this journey of self discovery and change
Treatment methods
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
I am authentic, intentional, naturally curious and engaging in my approach to clients . I enthusiastically give 100% to the process but expect that same level of commitment in return as I believe that meaningful, purposeful therapy is a partnership. It is a combination of my therapeutic style, my ability to recognize and to appreciate each person’s individual uniqueness and my commitment to process that allows me to build strong connections with those with whom I work. My approach is eclectic and in addition to ACT, incorporates aspects of CBT, Humanistic, Psychodynamic and Behavioral approaches.
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Serves
Licensed in
- MarylandLicense 05299