My approach to counseling is to draw from several theoretical orientations in order to achieve results as quickly as possible. I often use cognitive behavioral skills which help people to learn to manage difficult feelings such as depression, anxiety or anger by changing the ways they think about things. I also focus on ways to reduce stress and improve relationships. I help clients to learn new, more effective, ways to communicate with others, thereby reducing anger and negativity in relationships. Often ways of interacting with others that were learned a long time ago are preventing people from having positive, rewarding relationships. I find that gaining insight into these patterns can result in making changes in a relationships even when only one person is coming to counseling.
Couple counseling is also an effective way to improve relationships. Meeting with you together I can help each partner express his or her concerns in a supportive environment. Then it is possible to learn better ways to meet each persons needs in a positive manner. Behaviors causing hurt, anger or resentment can be looked at and new solutions arrived at.
Children and teens can benefit from counseling as well. Sessions often combine individual counseling for the child or teenager and a separate, brief meeting with parents. Family sessions might be indicated when issues involve several family members. Divorce, step-parenting, parenting issues, ADHD, school problems, depression, anxiety and social issues can all be addressed.
In summary, I use a variety of approaches and techniques to achieve positive results as quickly as possible.
