My Approach to Helping
My primary treatment approach is cognitive-behavioral which is solution-focused and generally shorter-term, however, in reality, we all generally benefit from a variety of therapeutic strategies and i will often utilize complementary and eclectic techniques that enables a more personalized treatment approach and relies on best practices for your specific issues. You will find me to be an active and engaged therapist and we will work together in a team-oriented and collaborative style. I often recommend activities to practice between sessions, and these might include a journal, trying out new communication skills and problem-solving or coping techniques that we have practiced, brief reading assignments, some research, relaxation techniques, and a variety of other options. I believe humor is an important element in the therapeutic process, and to life in general, and I strive to create a relaxing and trusting environment with my clients. I am very happy to answer any questions you might have, and if I am unsure, I will do all that I can to help point you in the right direction. I consider it an honor to assist clients on their personal journey in therapy. Participating in therapy is an important step in reclaiming your happiness and satisfaction and I take me role in providing assistance on that journey seriously as I appreciate the time, cost, and emotional investment of this choice.
More Info About My Practice
I am glad to provide an initial, complimentary, 10-15 minute telephone chat to discuss your needs and concerns to help both of us determine if i am likely to be a good "fit " for you as a psychologist. If not, I will be glad to try to help suggest some referrals for you. Our first 1-2 appointments will generally involve a thorough history and discussion to clarify your personal goals for therapy. We will establish your priorities and also discuss whether additional support would be beneficial, such as a nutritionist, psychiatrist, etc. Sometimes psychological assessment or testing may be recommended and we will always discuss everything thoroughly so that you can make the decisions that are best for you. I usually see clients once a week. Individual therapy sessions are 50 minutes long and my standard fee is $140. Family therapy, couples counseling, and testing are billed at different rates. Please visit my website for more details on fees, insurance, and general office policies. I have been a Licensed Clinical Psychologist since 1984, have written extensively on stress in the professions, have given over 125 lectures and presentations on a wide range of topics in psychology, and also hosted a cable TV show on preventive medicine and wellness. I work with children over the age of 5, teens, adults, and seniors.
Specific Issue(s) I'm Skilled at Helping With
I am especially interested in anxiety disorders (phobias, social anxiety, school avoidance, OCD, etc;). My training in cognitive-behavior therapy is considered "best practice" for these issues. I have been a long-time ally of the lGBT community and welcome referrals for these issues. I have personal and professional experience with Alzheimer's and other dementias and have worked extensively with end of life and caregiver issues. Having worked on a clinical research team at Children's National Medical Center in the area of pediatric diabetes, I welcome referrals related to diabetes and coping with other medical issues.
