INDIVIDUAL COUNSELING

In individual counseling we begin by discussing what issues motivated you to seek assistance. Together we will explore the parts of life that don’t seem to be working, identify patterns that were perhaps once effective but are no longer applicable, or patterns that are preventing you from further development. 

During the therapy process I will work with you to develop increased compassion and acceptance of yourself.  As you develop these essential elements, you will find a greater capacity and increased ease in connecting not only with yourself but others as well.  You will also develop a greater sense of self-confidence and self-esteem while simultaneously decreasing defensiveness that can impair relationships.

We will work to uncover feelings that have been buried or that you may have been avoiding. By examining these feelings you will be in touch with a wider range of emotions and can begin to experience a more expansive way of living.  Also, by practicing presence with yourself and attentiveness to your feelings you may discover you have increased self-resilience in a variety of situations, especially those that you formerly found challenging.  This work of self-examination helps to develop self-trust.  You will find you’re less likely to be distracted by thoughts and behaviors that inhibit growth and no longer serve you or your relationships. You will also be able to look toward yourself for self-worth, rather than turning to others for validation.

Research has shown that one of the most critical aspects of therapy is the relationship between the therapist and client.  All relationships need the basic element of trust in order to develop, including a therapeutic relationship.  I am sensitive about building an environment with you where you can safely share your thoughts and feelings with me, especially those that are difficult and painful.

One of the ways of building that environment is by communicating openly and honestly. Therefore, it’s important to address any issues or concerns that arise between us as we work together.   In fact, there are times when the therapeutic relationship can in some ways mimic the way you relate to others in your life. Therapy can bring about change in many ways and one of the most valuable is learning to identify misunderstandings with others and how to repair them. Therapy is the perfect place to practice new skills of relating to others within a secure environment.

In our relationship, I view you as the expert on yourself. With that in mind, I will assist in helping you find the answers to the questions in your heart. Therapy can also be challenging and uncomfortable—it’s my job to provide an atmosphere of support and guidance while encouraging growth.

We live in a busy culture that makes finding space for reflection or contemplation difficult, at best. Therapy is a time and space dedicated just for you. It is an opportunity to explore yourself and intentionally tune in, discovering your own needs and wants. Therapy provides a space to reconnect to yourself and determine the life you want to be living.