Helping People Find Therapists & Advocating for Ethical and Healthy Therapy & Marriage Counseling Practices

My Approach to Helping

It is a brave step to begin therapy, and it can be overwhelming to think about sharing personal feelings and experiences with a complete stranger. That is why I believe that it is important to find a therapist who is a good fit for you. I bring sensitivity, humor, and compassion to my therapeutic relationships in order to help clients to gain the insight needed to make positive changes in their lives. I have had over 10 years of experience as a therapist working with adults, children,and adolescents participating in individual, couples, and family therapy.

 

More Info About My Practice

I currently accept Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Humana, and Magellan PPO plans.

 

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

I have had the pleasure to work with both children, adults, and families. I enjoy seeing a variety of patients who struggle with the adjustment to life stressors such as relationship issues, depression, anxiety, loss, and feeling unsatisfied in their lives. My occupational experiences have been helpful in working with families of divorce. Because a divorce impacts so many different relationships, the process can be very complicated. Relationships change between children and their parents, as well as their siblings. I have been able to help children cope with the loss of the family unit, and to help parents to co-parent while no longer being married. My approach is to help transition the family unit to functioning in a different way.

 

How Psychotherapy Can Help

Your therapy experience is going to be as good as you make it. I always tell new patients that therapy is not a hair cut. It takes time! If you are willing to work with your therapist and are motivated to do the emotional work necessary, that is where the real change comes.

 

My View on the Purpose of Psychotherapy

To improve overall emotional satisfaction in your life, to shift perceptions, and improve relationships.

 

What I Love about Being a Psychotherapist

I absolutely love my job. Often others ask if I am, "Tired of hearing about people's problems." I don't see my job that way. I am honored that people share their life narratives. I am passionate about psychotherapy because I see people become more self aware and satisfied with their lives.

 

What I Usually Need to Know to Help

That they are ready to participate in therapy and are committed to the process.

 

My Guiding Ethical Principles

Honesty and a direct approach.

 

Important Factors for Choosing a Therapist

Research has shown that the greatest indicator of therapeutic success is the alliance between a therapist and the patient. Just are many different type of patients and therapist styles vary. You have to have a general comfortable with your therapist or you will be inhibited.

 

Why Going to Therapy Does Not Mean You are Weak or Flawed

If someone chooses to participate in therapy, this displays a desire to make a change in your life. I believe that this takes courage. Although, societal traditions have depicted therapy in various lights, I am glad to be practicing therapy in our day in age when some of this myths are being challenged.

 

Importance of the Client-Therapist Alliance

The therapeutic alliance is the number one indicator of therapeutic success. If you do not feel comfortable with me, you will not be able to sincerely express your experiences.

 

The Duration and Frequency of Therapy

This really varies from patient to patient. Initially, I see patients weekly. However, I recognize that today's life schedules are quite hectic. I work with my patients to find a balance between finding the time and ensuring that they receive proper treatment. Therapy is a collaboration. I work with my patients to determine an appropriate termination time.

Services I Provide

• Individual Therapy & Counseling
• Marriage, Couples, or Relationship Counseling
• Family Therapy
• Group Therapy
• Consultation
• Clinical Supervision
• Online Counseling / Phone Therapy

Ages I Work With

• Children
• Teens
• Adults

Languages I Speak

• English

Therapy Approaches I Use

• Anger Management
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy /REBT
• Family Attachment Narrative Therapy
• Family Systems Therapy
• Integration of different therapy models
• Interpersonal Psychotherapy
• Narrative Therapy
• Object Relations
• Play Therapy
• Positive Psychotherapy
• Psychodynamic
• Relational Psychotherapy
• Self Psychology
• Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Concerns & Issues I Help With

• Identity Issues
• Attachment
• Reproduction
• Abuse: Emotional, Physical, or Sexual
• Trauma
• Occupational & Academic Issues
• Addictions & Compulsions
• Life Changes
• Childhood & Adolescence
• Family Problems
• Social Skills & Problems
• Emotion Management
• Anxiety, Fear, & Stress
• Depression & Mood
• Health & Body
• Relationships & Marriage
• Self-Esteem & Confidence
• Spirituality
• Sexuality
• Self-Harm & Suicide