LPC, 20 years of experience
My name is William Dougherty, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Pennsylvania, providing therapy to clients statewide through telehealth. I specialize in working with adults facing challenges related to anxiety, stress, and addictions. My therapeutic approach incorporates a range of techniques, predominantly Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness. With a background in English literature, I bring a decidedly post-modern perspective to my therapeutic approach. One of the concepts I utilize is Narrative Therapy, which encourages and compassionately challenges people to be mindful of the story they’re telling in order to better utilize their strengths. This theory acknowledges the power of language, in that not only does the language we use reflect how we feel, it also affects how we feel. Therefore, the words we choose to use can help to manifest the changes we hope to bring about. The idea is to encourage the use of more positive, as opposed to negative, words while telling our life story. This approach has been remarkably effective in helping clients confront difficulties and bring about lasting and meaningful change.
In our first session together, our primary focus will be on understanding your feelings and experiences. I believe that establishing a connection is essential for our work together. We'll spend time discussing how you've been feeling recently, and I will ask thoughtful questions to gain deeper insight into the factors influencing your emotions. This initial session is not just about me guiding the conversation; it's about listening to your unique perspective. Everyone's experiences are different, and your input is important as we navigate your path forward. By understanding your individual circumstances, we can determine the best approach tailored to your needs and goals. Please know that missed intake sessions or intake sessions canceled without 24 hour notice will incur a $120 no show fee.
The ability to provide a safe environment for people to share their feelings, thoughts, and experiences is essential to effective counseling. Studies have shown no one therapeutic modality utilized by therapists is superior to another; rather, clinicians themselves ultimately determine whether treatment will prove effective. It’s not about the model being used; it’s the relationship between the counselor and client. This principle guides my work, in that I strive to provide a client-centered, strength-based counseling setting to individuals and couples for issues related to addiction, anxiety, career or relationships. I find it satisfying to be part of helping people discover who they can be and realize that perhaps they’re more than who they thought they were.
I have found that my style and approach is a good fit for adults who may be dealing with the challenges of life and social pressures. This often takes the form of anxiety, depression, stress, and addictive behaviors. I work to help my clients navigate these transition periods and to build skills to allow them to feel better about themselves and develop a more positive outlook on life.
CBT is based on the ideal that we can't change the events that occur around us but we can change the thought about the event. If I change my thought, that will change my emotional response, which can lead to feeling better