"Growing up I saw much pain, depression and suffering from trauma. I believe that no one need endure this alone. If only people could get the help they need, most of the suffering can be alleviated. I believe it is important to meet each person as an individual with an open mind and without judgment, to respect and embrace each person’s diversity. I believe I must understand and affirm each person's journey. I can see the good in each person (even if they cannot), help them find their strength, and gain the skills to recover their lives, hopes and dreams. We accomplish this through understanding, acceptance and skill enhancement. I have dedicated my life assisting others in the transformation of their lives."
I believe that therapy is a process of transformation. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy that focuses on thoughts, emotions, feelings and behaviors in such a way that allows for the transformation of life and how lives are lived. I achieve this by establishing a therapeutic relationship which embraces a collaborative partnership. I use questioning to allow us to gain understanding and insight. I also use education, experiential learning and skills building to enhance the transformation process.
Cognitive behavioral therapy is not a distinct therapy but a classification of types of similar therapies. I use Cognitive Therapy (Beck), Motivational Interviewing (Marlatt), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (Linehan) in my treatment process. What is used is based on you, your goals and your desired outcome.
I will generally see clients once a week until things become stabilized and will then go to every other week when we agree. I do not do this until I feel we have developed what I call rhythm in our sessions and feel we have figured out the best way to work together. As a CBT therapist, I will often give practice or homework to be done between sessions. It is very important that you be willing to use your insights and skills outside of the therapy session for a full transformation to be achieved.
