My Approach to Helping
I really listen to individuals and get to the heart of what they are needing. People have difficulty being objective with themselves. I can be objective for them which can identify where they are stuck and how to rectify patterns. I enjoy working as a partnership with my clients in resolving whatever issues they are facing--whether a current difficult situation or a life-long, painful struggle. I think when people are seeking help and willing to let me assist them in their journey, it becomes a new experience for my clients. I help people accept their needs which allows them to discover their own ability to accept their more vulnerable side and still maintain a strong, functioning self.
More Info About My Practice
I have over 19 years experience as a psychotherapist which covers years of working in mental health agencies and many years in my own private practice. I have extensive experience in working with children, families, individuals and couples. I am most qualified in the areas of anxiety (panic attacks, OCD, social anxiety, separation anxiety, phobias), depression, sexual, physical and emotional abuse, PTSD, SMI, DID, trauma, abandonment issues and bipolar disorder.
Specific Issue(s) I'm Skilled at Helping With
Difficulty with anxietypanic attacks. Because I had difficulty with anxiety from early in my life, it caused me to seek relief and answers to what "was wrong with me". People who struggle with anxiety are so frightened and confused. It is a very sad and lonely issue to live with. My heart goes out to everyone who has to face this problem. Of course everyone has anxiety--it is a part of being alive. But for people with problems with anxiety, it is a whole other reality. What I discovered in my search for answers, is that most people with anxiety problems are sensitve, caring people who are trying very hard to feel loved and accepted--they just never seem to get there. There reason I am so effective in helping individuals overcome problems with anxiety is that I understand exactly where they are and precisely what can be done to immediately bring relief and complete recovery. Because of my firsthand experience, I have learned that just because someone is feeling scared and doubting their abilities--it is not a permanent situation. I teach people how to change the way they handle many areas of their life, but most important, I help them learn to like themselves and begin living a more relaxed, fun life.
What I Usually Need to Know to Help
When I first meet a new client, I want to know what they're biggest obstacles are (what areas in life are they struggling with the most). I gather historical background information and get a general idea of what their perspective on their life has been so far. Most importantly, I ask them what it is they want to get from therapy. That to me is the most important question. I need to determine if I believe I can help them attain their goals in therapy and then I keep that goal in mind throughout our therapy sessions to make sure we stay focused in the direction they chose. If our work seems to head in a different direction, I will discuss this with the client and make sure they are in agreement with the change in direction of our work together.
