The Process of Counseling:

Although I utilize and respect many methods of therapy, I primarily work from a relational model of therapy using existential, family systems, and psychodynamic theories. I have chosen these models and approaches to therapy because I believe many of life’s difficulties are rooted in relationships.  Here’s why…

Early childhood research has shown that from the moment we are born we begin searching the faces of our significant others in order to better “see” ourselves and our place in the world.  This process repeats itself throughout life creating a “lens” from which we view ourselves and others, both past and present. I believe we base many of our actions and styles of relating upon this relational lens;  often it is this lens that creates an out-of-focus view of ourselves that pulls us away from seeing and embracing our true self and design.

I believe that relationships in our lives have shaped our lens in both glorious and tragic ways. In this way, counseling becomes a therapeutic process that can help you address who has impacted your relational lens thus leading to better clarification of your life and choices.  Eventually your true self can be exposed without fear, dread, or anxiety.

Some of the potential benefits of therapy:

• Experiencing an increased freedom and confidence to be yourself in all relationships
• Deepening intimacy with those closest to you
• Learning to manage intense feelings and use those feelings as opportunities for growth
• Transforming unwanted behavior and consequences to positive and beneficial activities
• Renewing a sense of creativity with which you are able to better explore and express yourself.