John Petersen, Psychologist in South Bend, 46617

John Petersen, Psy.D.

Profession(s):
Psychology, Social Work, Social Work
Licensing Info:
Licensed Psychologist
Primary License:
Health Service Provider - Psychology - 20041594A

My Approach to Helping

Couples Counseling - Emotional distance, hurtful conflict, and infidelity are the most common problems in intimate relationships and counseling can turn these around in an average of 5-7 meetings, based on observation in my practice. I'm an efficient and direct counselor who focuses on what works.

I have experience helping couples mild and severe problems, from premarital counseling to reunification after years of separation. There is hope for your marriage and you will have a very good idea of what counseling has to offer you after the first couple of visits.

More Info About My Practice

Many insurance companies do not cover marriage counseling. If you want to use your insurance read your coverage carefully and understand that many companies subcontract with provider networks. I am a preferred provider in the CHA, PHP, Lutheran Preferred, and Aetna networks.

How Psychotherapy Can Help

The research is clear that psychotherapy has a large and beneficial effect for the majority of those who use it. People change in therapy much as they do outside of therapy, but in therapy you have a skilled helper and time set aside to make your happiness a priority. In regards to couples therapy, the therapist has expert knowledge of what erodes and bolsters relationships and can give guidance for concrete change in your relationship.

What I Love about Being a Psychotherapist

Marriage counseling is a remarkable enterprise. Friends ask me how I can listen to others' problems all day, every day. I answer that I listen to problems but also witness solutions all day every day. It is inspiring how people pull through difficulties and find meaning and happiness. There is hope for almost every couple I see. It is a rare experience to feel helpless when meeting with a couple.

On the Fence About Going to Therapy?

Research indicates clients know from the first couple of meetings if a counselor is any good or at least any good for them. You don't have to waste money and time to know what you are in for. So give yourself a shot at the change you want and deserve. Schedule a first meeting and see what comes of it. Really, the effect of counseling is quite large compared to measured effects of medical interventions. Change is available to you. Take the first step and call.

Importance of the Client-Therapist Alliance

Nobody quite knows why the client-therapist working relationship is so important but we know that it is one of the best predictors of good outcome in counseling. That is why at every meeting, I measure what is called the therapeutic alliance, which is an esoteric term for whether or not counseling is going as you'd like it to go and that I'm not screwing up the process for you. I can't be all things to all people and I say so at the first meeting. If we are not a good fit, I won't waste your time and will offer a referral to another professional who might be a better fit.

The Duration and Frequency of Therapy

On average successful couples attend about 7 meetings over 3 months. The client determines when they are finished but I am usually quick to offer my confidence in you when you've hit your stride. I prefer people end earlier rather than later. You can always come back if you feel it was too soon but I can't give you your money and time back if we carry on with too many meetings.