Deb Hirschhorn, Marriage Counselor in Woodmere, 11598

Deb Hirschhorn, PhD

Profession(s):
Marriage & Family Therapy, Mental Health Counseling, Other
License Status:
I'm a licensed professional.
Primary License:
LMHC - 004678
Secondary License:
LMHC - MH4298

My Approach to Helping

Although many of my clients have been abusive, I do not judge or label; I understand that had I been placed in a similar context, I would not necessarily have fared better. In addition to systemic family therapy, I work holistically, drawing on internal resources and external support, and I work spiritually, connecting clients with the bigger picture to make meaning out of their lives and the relationship with their families.

Specific Issue(s) I'm Skilled at Helping With

Emotional abuse, however subtle it is needs to have a spotlight shine on it so that it can be identified clearly to both the giver and receiver. I make the assumption that abusers did not intend to hurt their partner; they simply did not know any other way to express pain or get their needs met. I will show them alternatives and help them feel empathy, too. I will help the hurt partner to heal. I will share with you all the tools you can handle, behavioral, attitudinal, and spiritual. I take advantage of the latest information in the world of neuroscience to show you why old fashioned methods like breathing, relaxation, and yoga are powerful adjuncts to standard therapy practices. One goal is to empower both members of a couple and all the members of a family so that they know how to get their own needs met while respecting those of everyone else. But the most important goal is for each person to find happiness within that family.

How Psychotherapy Can Help

Each person has massive potential. It is the therapist's job to help the individual realize that potential. But the therapist is a person, too. The therapist is not just a blank slate, at least, not when I'm that therapist! The therapist has ideas, experience, tools, and a way of looking at the world that might be of interest and value to clients. When the therapist shares this in a respectful way, not only does the client gain new insight and information, but if it's done right, it opens up the client's own creativity in handling problems. In this way, the client is empowered to tackling old problems in new and constructive ways, so, in a sense, the therapist is also a coach, helping a client grow. The difference between coaching and therapy? The therapist is equipped to help clients over the emotional obstacles that prevent them from realizing that massive potential that they have.