My Approach to Helping
Whether your concern is job stress, a relationship in crisis, or a mental health issue, you deserve quality care from a seasoned professional. My experience ranges from psychiatric hospitals and outpatient treatment centers, to independent practice. I am trained in a variety of scientifically validated treatment approaches, and I always treat you with compassion and respect.
Listening carefully to your description of your situation, we'll collaborate on a plan for change and recovery. I take a pragmatic approach, teaching you along the way, so that you fully understand what we are doing. Sometimes I'll recommend some reading, to speed up the process of change and healing. Or I may give you homework assignments so that the time between sessions is productive. You will find that I am active in the process, not merely nodding my head.
If you are suffering debilitating symptoms, I may suggest we get some medication from your doctor to make the process easier. But I recommend medications only as a last resort, and more often suggest a range of non-pharmaceutical interventions that have been shown in research to be effective. Nutrition, exercise, sleep schedules, mindful awareness, as well as a variety of supplements all can offer benefits.
If we are working in a couples counseling frame, I'll help you get reconnected without worry as to "who is to blame". Whether the conflict is over money, in-laws, sexual intimacy, or the kids, know that these issues are all opportunities for growth and happiness. Disruptions in our primary relationship are perfectly normal, and not to be a source of guilt.
If your concern is substance abuse or addictive behavior, know that there is no reason for shame here. It's all a matter of getting educated on the nature of the problem, and learning about how to make the change. We'll build a treatment plan that allows you to find your best self, and come back to being that wonderful person you were meant to be.
Feel free to come in for a single session just to see what you think. Let's get to work!