Therapy
I help adults, adolescents, families, and couples. Some of my particular areas of expertise include mood disorders (such as depression or bipolar), anxiety/worries, relationships, substance abuse and other addictions, eating disorders, trauma/PTSD, infertility, self-esteem, domestic violence, LGBTQ issues, and life transitions. If you are struggling with something not listed here, it's possible I have the skills and tools to help you. But if not, I will try to assist you in finding someone who does. It sometimes takes a few tries to find the right therapist for you.
There are many different styles 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. Sometimes people become "stuck" for whatever reason, and therapy might be the means for one to grow and move forward.
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 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.
There are many different styles 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. Sometimes people become "stuck" for whatever reason, and therapy might be the means for one to grow and move forward.
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 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.
