My practice includes working with individuals, couples and families. My areas of expertise are described in the Clinical Services Section of this website. I have training and experience in the current treatment approaches most commonly used.
These approaches include:
Psychodynamic Therapy which focuses on how patterns of behavior developed during childhood can interfere with current functioning.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy which focuses on how our thinking and perceptions affect the way we feel and how we behave.
Behavioral Therapy an approach frequently used with children who are rewarded for engaging in desired behaviors and for refraining from undesirable behaviors.
Personal Coaching which focuses on helping people to effectively cope with everyday stressful & challenging events develop short- and long-term personal goals improve problem solving and time management skills, etc.
Other methods include relaxation training, insight-oriented approaches and mindfulness. I believe in the importance of a holistic perspective. I take into consideration the person's biological/physiological status, intra-personal factors (personality, intelligence, coping strategies, etc) and their social environment (relationship with family, friends, co-workers, etc.).
My treatment style is practical, flexible, positive, holistic and realistic. I am guided by the following principles which inform all of my work:
- I embrace diversity/differences be they cultural, sexual orientation, or that some people are wired differently than typical individuals.
- I first seek to understand.
- People have a right to their feelings, but must think carefully about, and take responsibility for, how they act upon those feelings.
- I tailor my approach to the unique needs of the individual, couple or family who seek my services.
- I believe strongly in advocacy, social responsibility and that psychotherapy can be an empowering experience.
- There is always choice, even when people think they do not have any alternatives.
- Always try to create "win-win" situations. When there is conflict, people generally feel better about themselves if they take the "high road".
- Finding balance in one's life is essential. This encompasses an emphasis on 'strong mind, body & spirit'. In addition, to paraphrase "Serenity", finding inner balance also entails striving to accept what you can't change, having the courage to change what you can (and should), and the wisdom to know the difference. Practice forgiveness.
- A good sense of humor goes hand in hand with good personal adjustment.