Licensed to practice in New York and accepts 10 insurances. Specializes in Addiction, Anxiety, Men's Issues and 10 more.
(he/him)
New to Grow
Hello, my name is Doug. I have been a mental health professional for 15 years and have worked in many different venues with many different populations. The central theme of my work has always been helping people get to where they want to go. In sessions- you and I will ally to identify and then work towards any goals you have while I serve as a supportive resource who will aim to be useful in helping you notice patterns and build skills. Mental health is health and as humans we all need support enriching our health. My goal will always be to support you.
Our first session is an introductory engagement where we begin to build a rapport that will serve as the road we travel down together. I will gather background information, possibly including some family history, and we will begin to identify needs and hopes as we work toward creating a plan that works for you. During this session you are also free to ask about my education and work history.
I have been a therapist, advocate, trainer, supervisor, clinical director and patient navigator. I am trained and have trained staff and community members in a number of modalities and approaches. However, what I do best is create a peaceful, welcoming atmosphere conducive to working on both tangible and intangible obstacles. Everyone has their own rhythm and so being able to quickly build a rapport and customizing my approach is important. Meeting people where they are- with grace and without judgement is something I'm proud to be able to do. I have worked with people across most spectrums of life, from childhood to hospice. My experience has covered issues with adjustment, life transitions, gender and body issues, sexuality, chronic healthcare issues, justice involvement, substance use, persistent mental illness, grief and loss, end of life care, race and culture issues, family struggles and more. Outside of my experience, I consider myself a fast study and a thorough investigator. Also, at the end of all, I'm just a really good listener.
I am positioned to serve a diverse set of clients as I've had a career working in numerous fields- from senior citizens to young professionals, justice involved and chemically dependant to clients with relationship issues and middle life concerns. Trauma spares no one. I've enjoyed working with the disabled and with children as well as the LGBTQIA+ population. I've served clients with financial hardships and victims of crime and discrimination. I consider myself a salve, an advocate, a container and an ally to all.
I focus on learning how to become aware of our thoughts, feelings and other internal processes in an effort to ground and consider new perspectives. This can encourage change when needed or increased integrity and an internal sense of home.
I am fond of the idea of change talk and helping people make the unconscious conscious when it comes to goal setting and achievements. This is where Motivation Interviewing comes in.
Trauma trains the brain and the body. Polyvagal theory has an interesting way of illustrating the way trauma impacts our day to day interactions in the world.
Many folks are not well versed on their internal processes or can put into words how feelings can become thoughts that turn into behaviors. A bit of psychoeduction is useful for identifying adaptive and potentially maladaptive patterns.