Gordon Gunnell, Marriage Counselor in Phoenix, 85044

Gordon A Gunnell, MS, LMFT, LISAC

Profession(s):
Marriage & Family Therapy, Mental Health Counseling, Other
License Status:
I'm a licensed professional.
Primary License:
LMFT - 10218
Secondary License:
LISAC - 10515

My Approach to Helping

In times of difficulty, challenge, and/or distress, I take the view that life is asking us to learn something that CAN ultimately be for our good. There is little we can do about what others do, but much we can do about what we do in response to what others do. We have inherent ability to influence our thoughts, feelings, emotions, and behavior. The process of learning how is not impossible. When we acknowledge that change is a process, and commit ourselves to that process, we are accepting our human limitations--that we don't know everything. When we do that, and are willing to learn and try something different, we feel empowered, confident, and happy as we act on that willingness. Often, we do this process on our own, without the help of professionals. Sometimes, however, individual and/or relationship problems overwhelm us. As things seem to get worse, we often panic, become frustrated, angry, depressed. We try harder, put increasing amounts of effort into changing the situation. But the problem(s) often seem to worsen, or at least they don't seem to get any better. We may begin to lose hope and confidence when our own efforts at changing ourselves, our relationships, or our circumstances are ineffective. Some describe it as being "stuck". When "stuck", we may experience many distressing emotions--symptoms that are associated with such terms as anxiety, depression, grief, anger, resentment, helplessness, and many others. Sometimes, we try to cope when we are discouraged. Coping is a good way to deal with something that cannot be changed. But if change is possible, and our lack of knowing how to do it is what stands in the way of change, coping can unintentionally become a way of avoiding what we must learn and do to effect change. By indentifying what keeps us stuck in the distress and unhappiness, however, we can and do experience new perspectives, permitting previously unknown solutions to emerge.

My approach to helping is grounded in what research has shown to be helpful and effective. Please call for a FREE 10 minute phone consultation (480-220-7050).

More Info About My Practice

I am accepted by all insurance companies as an out-of-network provider. My fees may be reimburseable to you if you have an out-of-network benefit. I accept cash, Mastercard, Visa, Discover, and American Express credit cards.