My Approach to Helping
Are you the most satisfied with life that you can be? If you have feelings of anxiety or depression, I can help you work through these issues to begin living the life you deserve.
Do you have problems with your relationships? I know how much happier people feel when their relationships are going well. I help you find out what is getting in your way of having those positive relationships and teach you communication skills to help you build the great relationships you need.
Are you awake at night and can't sleep? Do you despair of ever getting a good night's sleep again? Are you afraid that persistent insomnia will ruin your health? I help adults overcome insomnia by discovering the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that keep them from getting the regular and restful sleep they need.
I have been helping people to live happier lives for over 40 years now. My job is to provide you with a safe, comfortable atmosphere where we can discover together what is keeping you from living your happiest life. Seeing things through your eyes helps me to know what it feels like to be you. I want to link arms with you in understanding your pain, your anger, and your hopes. We will work together to learn how to help you climb out of that hole you’ve been in. Together we can build a ladder made out of coping strategies that will last you a lifetime. I love being a therapist because I know how painful emotional difficulties can be and what a relief it can be to find someone who understands how you feel. I have found psychotherapy to be transformative for many, many people. Helping you feel better with tools that you can use on your own is my goal. People say I am approachable and warm. We may laugh together or feel your sadness and frustration together in a journey that will end with you feeling more prepared to continue your journey on your own. That is my goal. I have found that often people have been to therapists before but they haven’t always felt like it was the right fit. Don’t give up! The best indicator of a successful psychotherapy is the goodness of the fit between you and the therapist. My job is to fit in with you, not vice versa! My intent is not to judge, but, to ask the hard questions that you have trouble asking yourself. I would love to meet with you to see if I can help and if you think I am a good fit for you. If you are looking for the lowest rate or to see an in-networkedo provider, I may not be the best choice for you. But, if you want someone who will understand and work very hard to help you feel better, I may be exactly right for you. Most of my referrals come from physicians, nurse practitioners, lawyers, and former clients. I would like to put my over thirty-five years of experience to work for you. I am ready when you are.
More Info About My Practice
Your confidentiality is important to me. With HIPAA regulations, I am mandated to keep information about you strictly confidential. There are exceptions to your confidentiality when you choose to seek insurance benefits. With over thirty years of experience with insurance panels, I have opted to no longer contract with insurance companies. Many patients prefer to pay out of pocket and ensure confidentiality for counseling. For those who do want to use their insurance, you can seek reimbursement from out-of-network insurance benefits if you have those. Many people find that they have substantial out-of-network benefits that rival their in-network benefits. I can also take your Health Savings Plan or you can choose to pay by credit card. Please be assured, that whatever route you choose, I will be glad to do whatever I can to make sure your needs are met. I won't be the least expensive therapist, but I will aim to provide you with the best possible treatment. I would be glad to answer any questions that you have.
On the Fence About Going to Therapy?
If what you spend on therapy is one of your main considerations, I might not be the best therapist for you. I do believe that an investment in Psychotherapy pays dividends for a lifetime! What you learn in therapy will last you long after you are finished with your treatment. I have seen in my own life, in the lives of people that I love, and in my patients, the truth that psychotherapy has the power to change your life, to make you into a different person, to become the best version of yourself. If you are feeling scared about starting therapy, you are not alone. It is a very common feeling. If you are searching on this site, congratulate yourself on already having taken an important first step. There isn't any hurry, take your time, do your research on who you want to see. Feel free to ask questions of any therapist about their policies and the way they work. Interview more than one therapist. The best indicator of a successful therapy is the "Goodness of the Fit Between Therapist and Patient". Usually, with my patients, we feel a good chemistry, a good connection right away. Your therapist should be on time, make you feel like you matter, and leave you feeling hopeful at every session.
Why Going to Therapy Does Not Mean You are Weak or Flawed
We all know that there are people who say that a strong person can solve all their own worries all on their own. "Pull yourself up by your bootstraps!", they will say. Being able to solve your own problems is great, of course. Something to strive for. But, I have learned that when it comes to solving problems, it is often hard to get perspective on oneself. It's like a doctor treating him or herself or a surgeon operating on a loved one--too close to the loved one to be objective. That's why many people find it useful to talk to a therapist who can be caring and sympathetic, non-judgmental, but, also, objective and confidential. I think it is a strength to know when you need help from outside yourself. Asking when you can do it yourself is not good for you, but, asking when you genuinely need help is a sign of strength. Not asking for help when you need it may be because ego is getting in the way. You want to be like the flexible tree that bends in a strong wind rather than a rigid tree which cannot bend and breaks in a strong enough wind. So, knowing when you need help and letting yourself get it is a very good thing.
