My Approach to Helping
My belief is that therapy begins with an empathic, honest, and authentic relationship that allows for the development of a supportive environment. From there, the emphasis needs to be on the reduction of symptoms. Once symptoms have started to resolve, it is imperative to understand how and why the symptoms arose by examining past experiences and how they affect current functioning. I additionally like to look at relationship patterns and cooperatively experience them inside the therapy relationship. I take an active approach in my work and feel it is essential that the client and I work collaboratively towards insight and healing.
My Role as a Therapist
As a therapist, I work hard to be transparent in my reactions and thought processes while maintaining the boundaries necessary to keep therapy a safe and supportive environment. I like to be authentic and active therapist, and I never underestimate the value of humor.
On the Fence About Going to Therapy?
The decision to seek out therapy is often a difficult one that requires courage and strength (and is, on the contrary, not a sign of weakness!). While it may not be an easy process, therapy is a journey worth taking! I encourage clients who are ambivalent about starting therapy to commit to coming in 3-4 times to see what therapy is like, and perhaps more importantly, if we are a good fit. Throughout these meetings we will of course begin working on whatever has brought the client into therapy, but spend more time focusing on the experience of being in therapy and whether it feels "right."
The Duration and Frequency of Therapy
There is no one size fits all answer to how long therapy takes and how often a client should come in. Throughout therapy, there should be check points to make sure that progress is being in made and the client is reaching hisher goals. As a psychologist, it is a wonderful privilege to travel along with a client in healing and growing. But it is also a privilege to be able to see someone change and be ready to move on.
Clinicians who offer sliding scale payment structures may offer lower or reduced fees based on an individual's ability to pay. Please contact this clinician for more details regarding their fees or sliding scale policy.