My Approach to Therapy
Over the past 40 years, I have listened to the stories recounted by individuals who enter my office. These have ranged from those of the 5-year-old who struggles to leave home for the first time to enter kindergarten, to the 80-year-old who worries about the end stages of life, and whether or not they have lived a fulfilling one.
In listening to these stories, life narratives as it were, a collaborative process begins to address the problems being experienced. Through this process, insight is gained, understanding is achieved, and learning ways to make changes are developed.
Therapy, from my perspective, is not something that is done “to the individual”; via a manual or workbook, but rather with the individual in a collaborative, interpersonal, and empathic manner. By providing a safe and supportive environment, patients are better able to explore their struggles, gain insight and understanding, learn ways to make changes, and accept the things they cannot change.
Who I Work With
I provide therapy for children, adolescents, and adults dealing with a wide range of emotional and behavioral challenges. Whether you are navigating a difficult life transition, struggling with anxiety or depression, or seeking to better understand yourself and your relationships, I am here to help.
The first session is an intake—typically about 1.5 hours—where we have a detailed discussion about what prompted you to seek help, your history, and your goals. This allows me to understand your unique situation and begin developing a collaborative plan for treatment.
The length of therapy varies depending on your individual needs and goals. Some people benefit from short-term therapy focused on a specific issue, while others find that longer-term work provides the deeper understanding and lasting change they are looking for. We will discuss this together as treatment progresses.
- Anxiety and worry
- Depression and mood difficulties
- Life transitions and adjustment
- Relationship and interpersonal issues
- Self-esteem and identity concerns
- Behavioral issues in children and adolescents
- Grief and loss
- Stress management
I believe therapy is most effective when it is truly collaborative. Rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach, I draw on decades of clinical experience to tailor treatment to each individual. My emphasis is on building a genuine, empathic relationship where patients feel safe to explore difficult topics at their own pace.