Therapy
There are many different modalities of psychotherapy. Some theories and approaches whose elements I frequently utilize include Humanistic, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Existential, and Family Systems. I attend workshops and trainings regularly to ensure that I am up to date on the latest research and treatment protocols. My work is strongly influenced by the belief that all people have strengths within themselves and that it is possible for every person to make positive changes in his or her life. I may challenge your assumptions. Sometimes people become "stuck" for whatever reason, and therapy might be the means for one to grow and move forward. To me, therapy equals the encouragement of growth combined with the reduction of fear.
I also introduce and encourage my clients to practice mindfulness. Mindfulness involves a purposeful attention and awareness of present thoughts, emotions, and sensations without evaluation or judgement of what is occurring. There can be great relief achieved in being able to focus on the present moment, to relieve our regrets about the past and worries about the future.
In my work with couples, I utilize the Gottman Method, and have completed Level 1 of the Gottman Training. In this model, a detailed online assessment provides information to guide our work, focusing on improved communication skills, effective conflict resolution, and building closeness and shared meaning.
Many people wonder, "how long will I need to be in therapy?" or, "what will we do during the session?" The answers vary depending on your particular struggles and treatment goals. Some clients benefit from just a few sessions, while others choose to remain in therapy for months or years in order to more deeply examine their inner selves, choices, and relationships. Sessions typically last 50 minutes. Our first session will give us an opportunity to talk about the reasons you are seeking help, plus determine treatment goals; this session is more structured, while subsequent sessions may seem more relaxed. Most of our time together will be spent talking, though it is not uncommon for therapy with young people (and sometimes adults!) to include play, art, poetry, or music. We will probably laugh together at times, too, as there can be humor or lightness even in the most difficult situations. In addition, I might recommend relevant books and other readings, or perhaps a writing assignment designed to explore a certain issue in more depth. Homework is always optional, but my clients tell me they learn a great deal from self-reflection outside of therapy.
Sometimes I treat someone for a period of time, they leave therapy, and down the road they decide to seek therapy again. I reserve a small window of availability in my practice for exactly this; former clients who want to return are generally given priority over new intakes.