I am a psychotherapist who does counseling with individual adults and couples. I have been doing this work for more than 20 years and have seen people make remarkable changes in their lives and in how they feel about themselves and the people with whom they are involved, personally and professionally. Every person and couple comes in with a unique set of concerns and challenges, and together we work to identify what is bothering them, examine how they have dealt with these issues in the past and pinpoint what has and hasn't worked for them in their efforts to bring about positive changes. I listen intently, share my understanding of what they're telling me and help them to see themselves in a new and productive way. It is a joint endeavor that is undertaken in the context of a safe, non-judgmental environment. I believe that every person has within himself or herself the capacity to make changes, but we get stuck when we're feeling alone. Offering a genuine connection and interest in my patients helps to unlock their "stuck" feelings and mobilize movement forward. My goal is to build a solid relationship that will make people feel hope and a belief in themselves and what is unique and truly special about them.
The length of time that I see people varies with their needs and wishes. Some people come in for several months; some for several years. We work as a team to determine what we think will serve the patient/s best. I ask patients to come for an initial assessment period of at least several and up to 8 sessions, during which time we begin to sort out their concerns. It is not a rigid process; rather it evolves in a way that is unique with each person and the feelings and thoughts that they express. The most important thing for us to establish in that initial period is whether or not it feels to the patient like we are a good "fit". Does she feel like I "get" what she's saying? Does he feel like there is potential to feel safe enough to share what's going on inside of him? A person can determine quickly whether the connection exists or not; without it, change can not happen. With a good connection, a feeling that you are being heard and understood, significant, far-reaching change can occur. People can find the courage to face anything if they feel less alone, and feel that they have a partner in their quest for growth and change. I am continually awed and inspired by the people that I see and the growth they undertake, and feel honored and privileged to be invited into this process with them.