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​Treatment Philosophy

In the first session, I focus on creating a relationship with the client and their families so that they feel safe and in control of the treatment setting. My practice philosophy is based on insight oriented therapy to define patterns in behavior. I evaluate issues from systems and biopsychosocial perspective and view the whole person in their environment. This helps to distinguish between biologically based mental health problems and learned behaviors to ensure accurate diagnosis and treatment and wellness planning.

 

Individual Treatment

I provide psychoeducation, cognitive behavioral skill building, mind-body techniques, goal planning, and collaboration with our prescribers for medication management as needed. I encourage my clients to use a variety of different techniques and to allow for individualized preferences to emerge. I believe that therapy only works in the growth and development of the self. Client’s subjectively explore patterns of behavior, their ability to connect with others, and motivation for change. Skills are taught around relaxation, ways to improve self-esteem and coping skills. I also use self in relation theory in order to have client’s view themselves from other’s perspective, to help them further develop skills in relationships and intimacy, communication, and conflict resolution

 

Couples

I help couple’s examine the impact of family of origin and their individual parent’s relationships on their own current expectations and availability for emotional connection. I also help the couple to examine future relationship goals and different degrees and levels of intimacy. I encourage the couple’s to work on skill building their communication skills, fair fighting, conflict resolution, and intimacy issues.

 

Addictions

I work from a harm reduction model vs. total abstinence, starting where the client is at, in a non-judgmental framework. I provide tools for self examination of addictions and impact on life. I encourage use of 12 step programs, provide education around triggers, supports, impulse control, relapse prevention, and allow the client to identify their stage of change and move at their own pace. It is important to identify any dual diagnosis and other biologically based conditions that could be underlying any self medication issues.

 

Children and Adolescents

I help children and their parents identify and problem solve multi-faceted problems including initial diagnosis, school issues, relational issues, and behavioral problems. I work closely with the school systems and other agencies, as needed, to problem solve situations and collaborate on issues. I also help in identifying parenting issues and behavioral plans to create a more positive home life and improve relationships.