You are here hoping to find that therapist who stands out to you because you want to find someone who can help you. The search can be overwhelming for some. Most of the profiles of therapists are going to say similar things. Most of which should be standard like brakes on a car. I cannot promise I'm the right one for you. Here is what I can tell you about my approach. I believe in being practical which means I will not use a lot of psycho-babble or fancy strategies. I have a tendency to be blunt. My wife says I'm the "bluntest politest man" she has ever met. I'm going to be real with you. I love couples/marriage counseling, and that is my main focus. However, about half of my clients have always been individuals. Some people just need a place to vent. Others need help solving a problem, and most people need a little of both. I know therapy might be a little intimidating or even scary to some. Try to think of it as a massage for your brain. It's a place where you can say whatever you want guilt-free.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
I believe in a laid-back approach to therapy. I believe in being real and practical. The first session with any client is usually information gathering for both of us. I'm getting to know you and your needs, and you are getting to know me and my approach. I'd like to believe we can solve everything in one session, but that normally doesn't happen.
What treatment methods and tools do you utilize?
The "theoretical" approaches vary between cognitive behavioral therapy, person-centered, gestalt, and solution-focused.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
My main strength is understanding the dynamics of relationships. I love teaching conflict resolution not just in romantic relationships but all relationships. Most people do not know how to practice healthy conflict resolution. To be honest, I teach it and still struggle with it at times. I also have a heart for those dealing with grief/loss. People can say the dumbest and most insensitive things to someone who is grieving. They usually mean well, but their words either don't help or just make you angry.