My Approach to Helping
I approach therapy using the tenets of patience, authenticity and mindfulness. My goal in psychotherapy is two fold; assist individuals on their journey toward building awareness, compassion, understanding, respect, empathy and acceptance toward oneself and others. The second goal is to reduce the stigma attached to mental health. I understand and applaud the courage to engage in therapy which is why I cultivate an environment that is not only non-judgmental but also enables individuals to be their authentic selves.
How Psychotherapy Can Help
Psychotherapy helps by helping us to identify our strengths and using those strengths as allies in our quest for maintaining mental health.
What I Love about Being a Psychotherapist
I enjoy the diversity of human experiences and personalities which not only make us unique as individuals but also reminds me that we're all experiencing the same emotions and difficulties. Being able to guide an individual to their potential and helping them to achieve their goals is fulfilling and humbling.
My Role as a Therapist
I believe that the client-therapist alliance is paramount to effective therapy. Whether the format of therapy is allowing space for individuals to vent or have a spirited back and forth conversation, my role is not to change an individual, since change is a personal choice, but to offer a different perspective on a presenting problem. I believe that a collaborative effort between client and therapist allows for effective therapy results.
Why Going to Therapy Does Not Mean You are Weak or Flawed
The stigma attached to reaching out for mental health is pervasive in society because of societal expectations, cultural influences and negative beliefs. The decision to engage in therapy is an act of courage and a sign of strength. Being cognizant of the fact that if we don't make time for our health, we'll have to make time for our illness is not restricted to just physical ailments but also mental health. An investment in mental health makes room for enjoying life and realizing our potential.