There are many situations and challenges that prompt individuals, couples and families to pursue therapy. The decision to initiate therapy is an indication that you are dedicated to improving your quality of life and emotional well-being. Whatever has prompted your interest in therapy, congratulate yourself on this important first step to change.
As a therapist, I believe that the individual is the expert on him/herself, and it is that self-knowledge that I use as a key tool to develop an approach catered to the individual’s treatment goals. I acknowledge that the client is the expert on their own experiences, their personal values, spiritual beliefs and life goals. As the therapist, I bring experience and extensive knowledge on a range of treatment approaches. My desire is to also offer a different perspective because “when you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change.”¹
In terms of treatment modality, I will use a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy; acceptance and commitment therapy for anxiety disorders; motivational interviewing; solution focused therapy; dialectical behavioral therapy; and systems theory. These approaches give me a framework to assist you with learning new coping skills; increasing motivation for change; overcoming ambivalence about change; clarifying your values and what is most important to you; identifying your strengths and resources that have helped in the past; identifying patterns in relationships; and changing dysfunctional thought processes that are leading to uncomfortable feelings and unwanted behaviors. Moreover, I am particularly interested in mindfulness and values-based behavior change strategies and find these strategies to be very effective.
Finally, I strive to possess qualities that offer an atmosphere supportive of change which includes personality traits that are accepting, nurturing, direct, positive, non-judgmental and trustworthy. I look forward to meeting you and learning how I can help you move your life in the direction you want it to go. I consider it an honor and privilege to be a part of your journey.
¹Wayne Dyer, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Anxiety Disorders, 2005, New Harbinger Publications.
