My Approach

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Whether I am working with an individual, couple or family, my philosophy is always the same. This involves:

• Establishing an atmosphere of mutual trust and respect 
• Developing a collaborative relationship with clients to identify problems, concerns, and possible solutions
• Communicating empathy and understanding in a non-judgmental manner
• Reinforcing the courage it takes for an individual to disclose matters that are private or painful
• Creating goals and plans for the future 
• Teaching the client skills necessary to help themselves independent of therapy

People have many different reasons for seeking therapy.  One common theme is that individuals are experiencing difficulty coping with a current situation in their life.  The therapist assists the individual to identify and clarify the nature of the problem and helps them to develop possible solutions.  It is necessary and useful to take a family history in order for the therapist to understand the people and life events that have influenced the client.  It is also important to obtain a detailed medical history.  Depending upon the nature of the problem and the goals of the client, therapy may be either short-term or long-term.

• A better understanding of yourself and a clarification of your goals
• An ability to improve or change relationships within your marriage, family, or in the workplace
• The ability to identify maladaptive behavior patterns and the development of strategies to change these patterns
• An opportunity for increased confidence and self-esteem as well the ability to problem-solve
• Development of skills to cope with stress, anxiety, and depression
• Strategies to manage strong emotions such as anger, grief, anxiety, fear, etc.
• Support to cope with difficult life events