In the very first session (free), many of my clients will try and convince me that they are their diagnosis. Some are convinced they are bi-polar, have severe depression, or are "borderline," etc....   While their behaviors and emotional states may match some of the criteria for these diagnosis, some of the time, most people who come to see me have simply been unable to see that they are substantially more than what they believe themselves to be.  It is my job and passion to help my clients see that their beliefs about themselves are just that, beliefs and that beliefs have nothing to do with who we really are.  

These same clients have shopped around endlessly for the right therapist or therapy that will free them from their suffering.  The result of this pursuit is usually twofold.  One, they do not seem to experience lasting improvement. And two, this "failure to get better" seems to reinforce the belief that they really are their diagnosis, or depression, or grief, or anxiety, etc..  At this point they come to see me.

My goal as a therapist is to help my clients evolve to and through their next level of development.  This natural progression is indicative of personal growth.  It can manifest in many different forms.  Some people want to make external changes such as a new career, find a mate, or overcome a challenge.  Others wish to make internal adjustments.  They may want to "not be depressed anymore," be happy, eliminate anxiety etc.  Either way, I can usually help my clients pursue that which they want to achieve.  

There is one caveat and it is best explained with the classic joke:  "How many therapists does it take to change a light bulb?"  "Just one. But the light bulb has to want to change."  I realize that when experiencing overwhelming emotional states it can be extremely difficult to change one's point of view.  But this is usually the result of not having the appropriate resources available and not knowing what to do.  Most people want to change but they do not know how.    

This is where I come in.  My work is to help you gain access to and practice with both my and your resources so that you can get the change that you want even if you have no idea what it is that you want.  To do this, I utilize several different therapy techniques.  I have learned over the years that the more techniques I have available the better I am able to help clients who demonstrate the wide spectrum of individuality.  I will help you reveal certain aspects of yourself so that your beliefs actually serve you and so that you realize that you are much, much more than a diagnosis.  

Feel free to read more about "How it works."  Or better yet, give me a call and I can answer any questions you may have directly.  I look forward hearing from you.