My Approach to Helping
I am currently taking new patients who are experiencing problems with work, school and/or relationships that are due to obsessive and problematic usage of internet/computer/video games. Depression and anxiety are often associated with excessive use of these interactive technologies. Within the past seven years, I have seen a significant rise in my practice in people who have experienced major difficulties that have been rooted in spending too much time online, or excessively involved in one or more forms of interactive technology (i.e., computer/video games).
For some, it has to do with excessive internet surfing. For others, it may involve multi-user online games (e.g., World of Warcraft, Call of Duty). A growing number of people have reported spending ("wasting") hours upon hours on blogs, watching Youtube vidoes, and on Facebook, Tumblr, and other social networking sites.
More Info About My Practice
I have 20 years experience working with adults, teenagers and families. Most importantly I have specific experience treating this problematic issue. If you think you or someone you know may need help with this problem, or that it may be getting out of control, call me. I also invite you to browse my webpage (see above), where I provide more information on Problematic Internet and Video Game Use.
My Role as a Therapist
As a therapist, I believe it is my role to give you my full support in helping you to identify why you are seeking therapy, what you want to change, and how you would like to use your time in therapy. It is my job to take all of my clinical experience (20 years) to listen attentively to you with an ear towards helping you understand the root causes of your problems, as well as working collaboratively with you to explore effective ways to overcome your problems so you can feel better as soon as possible. It is my job to respect your agenda, not impose my own. I believe in being honest, sensitive and respectful and I believe in providing meaningful, helpful feedback-—not just listening neutrally and telling you when “time is up.” It is my experience that when we work this way in therapy, real, long-lasting changes can be made that can help you find more satisfaction in life.
Important Factors for Choosing a Therapist
If a person is seeking therapy, they should try to find a therapist who is experienced in the issues for which they need help (e.g., depression, OCD, couples work). They should follow their intuition. Do they feel like the therapist understands them? Is the therapist respectful? Can the therapist communicate how they work, and do they effectively address their concerns? Do they feel like the therapist offers them hope? I think these are important factors to consider in choosing a therapist.
