People will often see me for help understanding and dealing with relationship problems, including jealousy, intimacy, anger, career, money, and children or problems experiencing a pattern of unsuccessful relationships. In addition, I assist people who are stressed, feeling overwhelmed, or feeling generally dissatisfied with life.
People also see me for their own personal development. Often old patterns interfere with people being able to achieve their full potential. Therapy can help you identify these patterns and work through these related thoughts and emotions. Once they’re transformed, decreasing their influence, the way is clear for you to achieve personal goals.
You may be surprised how anxiety can take different forms, so how I work with anxiety depends on how it’s showing up in your life. For instance, if you have a phobia, I might use a technique called EMDR. This approach is also useful if you’re plagued by traumatic memories. (Click here for more about anxiety and anxiety attacks.)
Sometimes folks with anxiety suffer from irritability and anger problems. In these instances, I use a body-based or self-regulation technique to siphon off the heightened energy. Clients usually find they get almost immediate relief using this tool.
Anxiety also presents itself in relationships. When it’s necessary to get to the emotional roots of a relational problem, we’ll do some exploratory work into your history.
When clients find a tool that doesn’t work for them, I use another. Everyone is unique in this regard and I view it as my job to find what works best for you.
It’s essential that you have a good connection with me, your therapist especially when working with depression. Accordingly, we wouldn’t proceed until you’re sure that our connection is clear and that you’re comfortable with me and how I work.
I encourage clients to ask any question they may have about their sessions. Indeed I believe good therapy invites you, the client, to be an active participant in your own healing.
Everyone has an innate desire and capacity to heal. I attempt to tap into this healing energy in a way that makes your efforts in therapy as transformative as possible.
(Click here to learn more about depression and depressed mood.)
People often seek counseling or therapy when they have a nagging sense that something’s just not right. Many have said to themselves “I just can’t live like this.” and decided to make some changes but don’t know where to start. Whatever your issues may be, it inevitably becomes apparent after a few sessions. From there, the focus is all on making you feel better.
As I mentioned above, it’s important that you feel comfortable with your therapist. During the first few sessions we take time to get to know each other. I will gather just enough information so that I completely understand what the problem is, and what your goals are. Then we’ll agree on a plan for how we’re going to achieve those goals.
It’s completely understandable to feel nervous at first, especially when we discuss the issues you want to work on. But there’s no need to rush, and I’ll do my best to make you feel comfortable.
No, most people contact me directly. Some extended health plans require a doctor’s referral; in these circumstances you can see your doctor and simply ask for one.
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor (M.D.) with a specialization in psychiatry; they’re licensed to prescribe medication. Psychologists are not medical doctors and they do not prescribe medication.
Psychologists’ fees are not covered under the Medical Services Plan. However, they are tax deductible. Many extended health plans cover psychologists’ fees up to a certain dollar amount or for a defined number of sessions. Check with your employer or private insurer to determine what your plan covers.
If you are seeing a psychologist for stress management or basic coping strategies, you’ll probably need just a few sessions. If the problem has been long-standing, it will likely take more time.
Some clients resolve an immediate issue then return to therapy if and when other issues arise. Clients often find that the process greatly enhances their lives. Many continue to see me after their initial complaints are resolved.
Still have questions? Please feel free to call or email. I’d be happy to chat with you!
RECOMMENDED TOPICS
10 Tips for Choosing a Therapist