My Approach to Helping
I try to approach and relate to a person rather than a problem, to their strengths, to the good and healthy self that may be hidden behind his or her problem. I practice looking deeply into the person's or family's situation to see as much of what has affected them as possible, then to help them see that it isn't surprising that they may have whatever difficulty they have. It is then easier for the person to develop compassion for themselves: a necessity for healing.
I then help one learn to come to a different understanding of what has happened. In cases of trauma, I use Emotional Freedom Techniques, a powerful, method to rapidly neutralize the negative emotions which accompany traumatic memories. I have used this method for twenty years, and am still amazed at the relief it can provide for people. For anxiety and depression,I use a combination of the well-known therapies, as well as "mindfulness and acceptance," and "Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, one of the most recent developments in psychotherapy. For couples, I use Imago and Emotion Focused Couples Therapy. Beginning Post-Master's Practice in 1974, I have supervised other therapists, been a practicum instructor For Washington University, St.Louis; for St.Louis University and studied directly under one of the great masters of family therapy.