My Approach to Helping
Navigating life's stressors is a formidable task. At times, we encounter situations that leave us feeling stuck and overwhelmed, unsure of the way forward. Whether grappling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, low self-esteem, or other life challenges, it's easy to feel like a victim of circumstances.
In my role as a counselor, I am dedicated to providing encouragement, support, and assistance in moving beyond these challenges. I work collaboratively with you to identify the beliefs or areas of your life—your blind spots—that contribute to repeating patterns at the core of the issue. Drawing on cognitive psychology theories and techniques, I help pinpoint distorted thought patterns that no longer serve you, offering tools for personal growth and overcoming your current challenges.
Counseling becomes a transformative journey, empowering you to move beyond a state of helplessness. Together, we explore new possibilities and initiate the changes necessary to create the life you aspire to live.
More Info About My Practice
I provide online sessions (Teletherapy) through the secure Grow Therapy platform, ensuring HIPAA compliance during our video sessions. Enjoy the flexibility of choosing a comfortable location—whether it's the coziness of your home or the convenience of your office. Feel free to create a setting that promotes your well-being, whether it involves a cup of tea, soothing music, or any personal preference.
Online counseling, known for its effectiveness, offers the advantages of privacy, convenience, and flexible scheduling. I accept various types of insurance through Grow Therapy, and out-of-pocket payment options are also available. Client selection is a thoughtful process, ensuring a specialized and individualized counseling experience to enhance the likelihood of success and life-changing outcomes. Additionally, Christian-based counseling is available upon request.
My Role as a Therapist
Employing theories and techniques firmly grounded in cognitive psychology, my role as a therapist is to guide you in recognizing distorted thought patterns and core beliefs that may no longer serve your well-being. Together, we explore effective tools to foster personal growth, enabling you to transcend your current challenges. Through counseling, we navigate beyond a state of helplessness by delving into new possibilities and instigating the changes needed to shape the life you desire.
What I Usually Need to Know to Help
n broad strokes, understanding your core as an individual involves delving into pivotal life events that have molded your identity. While our discussions may touch on your past, the emphasis lies in exploring your perceptions and interpretations of these events. It's about understanding how these interpretations, coupled with your responses, impact your present circumstances and shape the trajectory of your future.
My Guiding Ethical Principles
My ethical compass is aligned with the guidelines set forth by the American Psychological Association (APA) or the American Counseling Association (ACA), as mandated by state licensure. As your therapist, my fundamental principle is to prioritize your well-being and ensure that my actions do not cause harm. I am committed to transparency, and I welcome any questions you may have, providing detailed explanations as needed to uphold the highest ethical standards in our therapeutic relationship.
On the Fence About Going to Therapy?
Therapy need not be an intimidating or joyless experience. In fact, it can be an empowering and enjoyable process that enables you to actively shape your own life and explore new possibilities. Feeling vulnerable when opening up to a counselor is entirely normal. It's crucial to recognize that, in my role, judgment is not my focus. Instead, I am here to provide unwavering support, encouragement, and guidance as you navigate through challenging aspects of your life.
For those hesitating about entering therapy, I encourage you to take the leap. Embrace the opportunity to enhance your life and discover the positive changes therapy can bring. Remember, there's nothing to lose, and the potential for personal growth and well-being is immense.
Had a Negative Therapy Experience?
For those with a negative counseling experience, it's important not to generalize it to the entire therapy process, just as one wouldn't judge all doctors based on a single bad encounter. Success in therapy depends on your commitment and the therapist's skills. If you've had a bad experience, discuss it openly with a new counselor, sharing what didn't work. Set clear goals and expectations, assessing progress regularly. Instead of dismissing therapy altogether, find a new therapist, treating it like seeking a new doctor. With the right match, counseling can be highly successful and transformative. Take the time to find the right counselor for you.
How My Own Struggles Made Me a Better Therapist
In general, knowing myself, the struggles of my own life, and my own experiences with therapy have made me a more effective counselor. The more self-insight a counselor has, the more effective he or she can be in helping you. There have been several key moments in my life that have been traumatic, and while I would not choose to repeat them, they ultimately have made me stronger and a better counselor.
Importance of the Client-Therapist Alliance
The client-counselor alliance is pivotal for the success of therapy. Establishing a strong relational foundation is key in reducing defenses and creating openness to possibilities for change. This foundation provides a space to explore oneself, understand self-defeating behaviors, and take the necessary steps for change. As an active participant in the counseling process, my approach is both warm and empathetic, yet direct and authentic. My goal is to help you identify blind spots, challenge you, and provide support and encouragement as you take the essential steps toward the change you seek.
The Duration and Frequency of Therapy
In our initial sessions, we'll collaboratively set goals and determine the anticipated duration for counseling. Periodic assessments will help us track progress, with the aim of efficiently guiding you through the counseling process. My objective is not to keep you in counseling indefinitely; rather, I aspire to empower you with the skills needed for effective life management. Your confidence and ability to move forward independently are key markers of our success. Although individual situations vary, I generally recommend assessing therapy goals every 6-8 sessions to ensure we're on track.
