My Approach to Helping
WHAT STOPS YOU FROM HAVING THE LIFE YOU WANT? Do you want to feel good about yourself, enjoy your life, and have satisfying relationships with others?
Together, we'll look at who you really are and the relationships you are in. We'll learn about what works, what doesn’t, understand why it’s not working, and help you to change things so your life does work for you.
I see therapy as a process of self-discovery: a careful, supportive exploration of how you act, think, feel, and relate to others. We’ll see how those all have been affected by your life experiences. This will give you the opportunity to grow and develop new and more effective ways of interacting and communicating in your relationships. In therapy with me you can gain a better sense of understanding through becoming aware of outmoded patterns, the strength to tolerate life’s pains, and the capacity to tolerate its pleasures.
I see my role as an ally and navigator on your journey. I have made my own journey of self-exploration, and I see myself as continuously pursuing that voyage. I can offer support and encouragement when the going is rough, and I can also share in your pleasures and joy in living. I can help with identifying and working through obstacles. I will work with you to increase your sense of internal harmony, enhance your ability to relate to others honestly, openly, and deeply, and help you feel more productive, effective, and joyful in everyday living.
Check my website to learn more about: Addictions (Substances & Behaviors), Trauma, Affairs, Victims of Violent Crime, GayLesbianBisexual Issues, MindBody Integration, and other issues you may be facing.
YOU SET THE COURSE, AND I'LL HELP YOU GET THERE.
More Info About My Practice
PRIVATE PRACTICE SINCE 1981. I have taught, trained, and supervised other mental health professionals.
I have written four books on trauma and its impact on normal development and later life. I'm honored to be the Recipient of the Award for Outstanding Practice, 2020, by The American Psychological Association (Division 56 – Trauma Psychology) .
I have had the American Psychological Association's Certificate of Proficiency in the Treatment of Alcohol and Other Psychoactive Substance Use Disorders for over 20 years. I’ve been integrating somatic, psychoanalytic psychotherapy, and other psychotherapeutic modalities since 1974. I have served several terms on the Boards of the Los Angeles Society of Clinical Psychologists and the Los Angeles Chapter of the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists.
Special study has concerned issues relating to gay, lesbian, and bisexual life, growth, development, coming out, being out, relationships, and homophobia. I also work with transsexual people. In addition, I have developed a specialty in working with people who have had affairs or been otherwise unfaithful in their relationship.
Specific Issue(s) I'm Skilled at Helping With
In general, I help you address your relationship with yourself and with others. This includes focusing on what goes on in your life that prevents those relationships from being wonderful. Together, we look at what gets in the way: some kind of traumatic events in your life, addictive behavior (whether it's with substances or other behaviors), difficulty feeling comfortable in your own skin, fears of how you'll be treated for just being yourself (such as when your sexual orientation is seen as different or parts of society see it as "unacceptable"), or any other struggles you are dealing with. These are issues I help people deal with on a regular basis.