Unlike coaching, which tends to focus more on current or external goals and motivations, clinical psychotherapy deals with more interior matters, such as events from the past that may be negatively affecting your present and/or future or other, more complex emotional matters: identity issues, grief/loss, trauma, PTSD, OCD, addiction, chronic anxiety, depression, or persistent or recurring illness.

As a therapist, I regularly work with a wide variety of clients: individuals, engaged (premarital) or long-term couples, parents, traditional and LGBTQ couples and families, couples and families who may be dealing with mental illness, struggling in their relationships, or otherwise in need of an emotional “tune up”–whatever the challenge, I am passionate about helping my clients live happier, healthier, more productive lives.

YES, BUT… HOW DOES IT WORK?

In practice, clinical psychotherapy helps lessen otherwise overwhelming problems by breaking them down into smaller parts. Together, we will examine how your “natural” responses affect you, explore patterns or habits you may wish to change, and work to re-wire your brain’s pathways to diminish negative ways of “thinking and doing” in favor healthier, more beneficial habits.

Using scientifically validated theories–including positive psychology, systems theories, emotionally focused therapy, solution focused, narrative, and mindfulness cognitive behavioral therapy–you will better understand not only how your past experiences impact your present life, but also how to alleviate symptoms of acute depression and anxiety, and best cope with struggles or hardship in the future.

IS THERAPY RIGHT FOR ME?

With the proper practitioner, therapy not only helps break bad patterns and habits, it can control or otherwise diminish feelings of chronic worry, obsessions/compulsions, low self esteem/shame, seeking out (or staying too long in) unhealthy relationships, or even just generally feeling “blah” about life. In short, it can help you:

  • Cope with stress
  • Overcome fears and insecurities
  • Define and reach wellness goals
  • Make sense of past traumatic experiences
  • Develop strategies/plans for coping with crises
  • Understand and accept chronic or recurring illness
  • Separate the self from illness-related mood swings
  • Identify triggers that may worsen your mood/symptoms
  • Improve relationships with family, friends, and co-workers
  • Understand why things bother you and what you can do about them
  • Gain a greater understanding of your life (past, present, and future)
  • Address/control abusive, risky or otherwise unhealthy behaviors (drinking/drug abuse, overspending, destructive sexual habits).
  • Address/control anxiety, depression, sexual dysfunction, dysphoria, low self-esteem, lack of identity, obsessions, compulsiveness

To find out more about my psychotherapy practice or to schedule a consultation, please Contact Me.