I utilize a variety of treatment approaches depending on your specific situation and you as an individual. Some of the treatment strategies I use are:
Humanistic Strategies that I believe are the basis to building a good therapeutic relationship. One of the main focuses of my graduate program in counseling was client-centered therapy. The main concept of which is being genuine, supportive, empathetic, actively listening and building positive rapport with the client to enable them to improve their self-esteem, gain self understanding and promote self development.
Cognitive-Behavioral Strategies built on the concept that thoughts impact the way that we view and interact with our world. By identifying negative or self defeating thoughts and behavioral patterns, an individual can begin to restructure and challenge both the way they view their world and how they interact with it.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy is a therapy that also looks at the way clients interact and view their world, but has a focus on mindfulness, being present in the moment and looks at individual's values as a way to help them approach life in a more helpful and action oriented manner to reach their goals and manage stress.
In addition to these therapies, I also look at the history of the individual, how they interacted with their family growing up, significant life events and personality. Although an individual is sometimes very aware of the cause as to why they are struggling, at times an individual does not understand or know why. Looking at a person's history can help identify variables that may be impacting their life that they are unaware of or are aware of, but have not dealt with sufficiently, such as a loss or family systems issue.
Health and wellness is an interaction of social, physical and psychological factors. I approach therapy with a client taking into consideration all of those aspects of one's life. Variables such as nutrition, lifestyle and physical health are important factors that I consider in treatment. I may recommend or refer you to another healthcare professional in the course of your treatment if it is indicated.
I am very strength based in my approach to counseling. I believe that individuals can benefit from identifying and understanding their strengths and competencies. This can help build resiliency and self-esteem. Although we cannot change the past and sometimes cannot change situations in the present, we can look to ourselves and what we can do to effectively impact the situation, or effectively cope.
Therapy is an interactive process. All of the treatment strategies involve the client being an active participant, and can include home work or strategies to practice to help reinforce what was discussed in session. However, I understand that homework may not be for everyone and so I will tailor the process to what works best for you.
