My Approach to Helping
I believe in talk therapy, with medication if necessary, to explore in depth a client's symptoms and what lies behind them in order to alleviate them as soon and as cost effectively as possible. I create an atmosphere of caring, non-judgmental curiosity and listening, both for what is said and what is behind what is spoken. I believe in the power of the unconscious and in childhood relationship patterns carrying over into adulthood. I also believe in eclectic psychotherapy to provide symptom relief in the shortest time possible according to the needs of the client. I am also very flexible in terms of frequency and financial arrangements and take most insurances. I specialize in men's issues, addictions, teenage males, and anxiety/PTSD.
My View on the Purpose of Psychotherapy
For me, the purpose of psychotherapy is first of all, to alleviate emotional suffering, and secondly, to deeply understand and experience yourself so that you can be your very best self, utilizing your full potential to love and to work.
My Role as a Therapist
My role as therapist is to create and atmosphere of safety and trust in which the client feels free to express their innermost thoughts and feelings. My attitute is one of curiosity, interest and exploration, never judgment so that the client begins to know themselves as never before. I also serve as a foil for any feelings the client has in relationships that we can work out in therapy. I help the client develop a firmer and more positive sense of self by making sure the client knows that I am listening in depth, by giving the client the feeling that I empathically know what they are talking about, and by providing a relationship model more positive than any they may have experienced to date. As a result, the client tells their full narrative with all its implications and we explore what is working and what is not working or causing symmptoms to achieve the client's goals.