Philosophy and Approach to Therapy
If you’re seriously considering calling me about therapy, I urge to you read this page first. In therapy, the fit between client and therapist is crucial, and this is one way of helping you decide if I’m the right practitioner for you.
MY PRACTICE IS SIMPLE BY DESIGN
Ten years ago, when I opened my practice, I made a conscious decision to create a practice that would allow me to do my very best work.
My office is set up for easy conversation. Although my suite is located in Raleigh Woods Office Park, I have made every effort to give my office a comfortable, non-medical feel.
Also, I do not employ a receptionist, which means when a client (or couple) arrives they have the waiting room to themselves. I do my own billing and answer my own phone (amazing what you can do these days with a good laptop and a smart-phone).
APPROACH TO THERAPY
My clients routinely report that they find me non-judgmental, supportive, and knowledgable. If there is one thing I stand for as a psychologist, it’s the idea of meeting people on their own terms. I do not approach any individual or couple with pre-conceived notions. Although I have many methods at my disposal, I tailor my approach to meet the needs of any given individual or couple. In my experience, “one-size-fits-all” solutions are a myth. Each person is complex, unique, and special –- and I treat them as such.
Moreover, regardless of the presenting concern, each person deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. I believe that none of is perfect, and that all of us, sooner or later, will face problems and issues. But just as we make allowances for ordinary human frailty, we must also make room for new possibilities in our lives. Above all else, therapy is about finding ways to bridge the gap between where you are and where you'd like to be.
I offer brief-, short-, and long-term therapy. I integrate techniques from Psychodynamic, Cognitive, Gestalt, and Schema therapies. My therapy styles tends to be insight-oriented, active, and practical. In my view, therapy isn’t just about feeling better, it’s about getting better.
REASONS WHY PEOPLE SEEK CONSULT WITH ME
- Life adjustment concerns –– struggles with some from of anxiety, panic attacks, or social anxiety; depression; unresolved grief.
- Relationship issues –– strained relations; frequent arguments; painful break-ups; repeating patterns; painful divorce process.
- Spiritual issues –– mid-life crisis; lack of meaning, direction, or purpose in life; frustrated life dreams.
- Complex Problems –- PTSD, self-injurious behavior (cutting), recovery from emotional injuries in childhood (abuse, neglect, emotional deprivation, strained relations w/ parent(s) or siblings).
- Self-growth –- identity issues, self-esteem problems, vocational confusion, job stress.
WAYS THERAPY MIGHT HELP YOU
What you get from therapy depends a great deal on what you’re willing to put into it. But here are some examples of the results people have reported at the conclusion of therapy.
- Improved mood –– less distressed or depressed, more hopeful.
- Improved skill in regulating anxiety.
- Improved skill in understanding loved ones, friends, co-workers.
- Inner clarity about needs, wants, wishes, and purpose.
- A sense of feeling stronger, more vibrant, more authentic.
- A better grasp of one’s blind-spots.
- Less distorted views of self, changes in mindset.
- Better understanding of one’s true nature (personality, character, abilities, strengths).
If you’d like to discuss the prospect of therapy with me, please call 616-218-8059.