There are many types of therapists and many approaches to therapy. As a client, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the variety of credentials and therapeutic approaches. CBT, DBT, EMDR, MBSR... It's enough to make your head spin. Luckily, it doesn't have to be that complicated. Research has repeatedly shown that the quality of the therapist-client relationship is a key factor in therapy outcomes. That means you just need to find a therapist who you feel you can communicate well with and feel comfortable with.
I am a relational psychotherapist and, as such, work hard to develop authentic, healthy relationships with my clients. Like most therapists, I am integrative and use tools from various approaches (such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT) depending on your thinking style and the nature of your difficulties. I view therapy as a collaborative effort. We will work together to identify your therapy goals and assess the course of therapy across time.
Although many people think of therapy as advice giving, I don't often give advice. I recognize this can be frustrating. However, it is not my role to tell you what is best for you. It is my role to help you determine what you feel is best for you. While friends and loved ones are important sources of support, the therapeutic relationship is unique. I don't have an agenda for your life other than to help you find ways of feeling more fulfilled and being more successful in your goals. It is not my role to determine what those goals are.
I love what I do. I believe being a therapist is a great honor and great responsibility. We all face challenges at times in life. Asking for help requires vulnerability and the courage to push beyond that vulnerability. I admire and respect the courage clients show in seeking therapy. It is my responsibility to honor my clients' trust by providing the best care I can.
No therapist is right for everyone. If we begin working together and it doesn't feel like a good fit, please let me know. I would like you to feel welcome to share feedback about your experience of me, both to enhance my own growth and to help me refer you to someone who may be a better fit.