If you’re reading about my background with a critical eye, then I commend you. You’re selecting a therapist with caution. That is wise because we therapists aren’t all the same. Some of us will fit your style and goals while some won’t. Here’s what you need to know about me so that you can make an informed decision:
I believe people are experts on their own lives and that they are equipped with a powerful, resilient human spirit. They have the capacity to thrive regardless of their circumstances. If you choose me as your therapist, I would provide a safe and nurturing environment for you. But beyond mere support, I would act as your expert catalyst to bring forth the strength and wisdom that’s already inside you. You may not believe that it’s there, but it is. You just haven’t uncovered it yet.
“I am the master of my fate: ?I am the captain of my soul.”
(William Ernest Henley)
People are born with a tremendous ability to cope and adapt to the many challenges that life throws at them. As time passes, what were once helpful coping strategies often become outdated and counter-productive. As your therapist, one of my tasks would be to help you sort through your coping strategies and to teach you how to strengthen the helpful ones and to eliminate the ones that are now counter-productive. Through this process, you would identify and change the patterns of behavior that cause you pain and stress. You would develop a greater potential to live a happier life and form meaningful relationships.
We would start our therapeutic relationship by identifying your specific goals and forming an alliance. Then, we would map out the most effective way to accomplish your goals. My style is direct. I usually zero in on the root of the problem and begin our work there. I don’t believe in passively listening to burn up time. I know that targeting the root of your problem will allow you to go beyond merely resolving the crisis at hand. It would also help you to change other aspects of your life and get a more comprehensive benefit from therapy.
Over the years, I have developed my own therapeutic modality which incorporates techniques from the Cognitive-Behavioral, Adaptive Information Processing and Psychodynamic schools of thought. Depending on your particular needs, I would also draw from other therapeutic realms such as Behavioral, Motivational Interviewing, Solutions-Focused Brief Therapy and EMDR.
