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 he focus of psychotherapy involves the use of
psychological information, both conscious and unconscious, based on the client's recollection of past events, relationships, perception of self and metaphorical representations such as dreams, journaling and art work. The therapeutic process occurs between the individual client and the therapist. There may be blending of the several approaches, (see Approach Section) according to the expressed preferences of the client and determined effectiveness over time. The following is an overview of the subspecialties I treat within the domain of psychotherapy.
Psychotherapy
Abuse/Childhood - Emotional, Physical, Sexual: Recovery from childhood abuse involves a grieving process around the loss of childhood and a recognition of the extent of the trauma that was incurred. Clients often experience symptoms that are components of posttraumatic stress disorder or mimic anxiety and depression. The objective is to move beyond the shame, guilt and anger surrounding the past and develop mature adult coping strategies, and healthy boundaries within relationships that allow for greater intimacy as an adult.
Addictions - Chemical, Sexual: Tackling addictions requires developing an astute awareness of the signs, symptoms and environmental/psychological triggers that precipitate engaging in addictive behavior. Finding new, alternative solutions for coping with stressful events or emotions is essential to the process of recovery along with taking full responsibility for your behavior. A sound recovery plan may include use of a twelve step or sixteen step model (see below) combined with cognitive therapy and family origin work.
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Group forming February 2005 based on Charlotte Davis Kasl's sixteen step approach to recovery. This model blends cognitive, holistic, spiritual and empowerment techniques to recover from addictions including co-dependency. See her books entitled Yes You Can and Many Roads One Journey as references.
Co-Dependency: Recovery from co-dependency envelopes gaining a clear sense of self and becoming less focused on the actions/motivations of others and/or taking cues from the world at large as to how to conduct yourself. This entails an in depth exploration of family history, values, and expectations that have shaped your personality along with establishing healthy boundaries and moderate responses to people and situations. The recovery process dovetails with that describe for addictions.
Depression/Anxiety: Living a full, satisfying life while managing depression and anxiety requires developing a healthy lifestyle including dietary, exercise and social components. Employing cognitive techniques to refute negative self talk, and establishing realistic expectations is essential in establishing a sense of well-being. In certain circumstances medication is warranted to alleviate symptoms and promote effective use of therapy.
Intimacy: Attaining and sustaining intimacy in relationships entails balancing your needs and wants along with those of the other person's. The goal is to feel a deep sense of connection with others while maintaining boundaries and a sense of individuality. Sometimes this requires exploration and resolution your past relationship history along with the development of communication skills so that you can express your vulnerability and at the same time feel respected within a relationship.
Life Transitions/Life phase: Achieving a successful transition whether it be environmental i.e. work or relocation; or personal i.e. mid-life or postpartum, involves adjustment and acceptance of your new role. Establishment of new goals and a positive outlook is essential to moving from one phase to the next. Education regarding what you can expect in the your near future along with therapeutic support can help provide some solid ground while you are undergoing rapid growth and life altering change.
Personal Growth/Spirituality: Expanding your world, options, and life views are the hallmarks of personal and spiritual growth. Self-actualization involves confronting fears, old perceptions and messages surrounding yourself and the world. A willingness to try new endeavors, and explore different belief systems within an encouraging, supportive therapeutic environment helps foster a spirit of receptivity to creative thought and expression thus enriching your life experience and those of others around you.
Self-Esteem/Assertiveness: Establishing a positive sense of self and asserting yourself in the world go hand and hand. Healthy self esteem encompasses taking a realistic inventory of the attributes and weak points of your character. It requires self acceptance, setting realistic objectives, addressing perfectionist tendencies and refuting messages given to you by others. Self-assertion stems from a sense of value to both yourself and others and is a natural outcome of achieving self worth. Offering help and opinions, as well as, expressing your needs becomes the inherent motivation for a fulfilling, satisfying life.
Life Threatening Illness/Oncology: Coping with a life threatening
illness poses its own special challenges. The initial diagnosis is often met
with shock and bewilderment with questions ranging from how do I determine
the best course of treatment, to how will this effect my family, to what
will the future bring? The treatment phase requires endurance, setting
realistic objectives, and dealing with ongoing fears. Post treatment
(survivorship) entails re-entering the “well” world with a realignment of
priorities, a shift in family/intimate relationships, and in some case an
adjustment to a new body image. Family members/caretakers have their own set
of adjustments spanning across providing direct care, determining how and
what kind of support to give, and dealing with their own fears about the
future. It is the therapist’s role with both the patient and family to
provide support, encourage choices compatible with values systems and life
circumstances, facilitate clarity and understanding of what a diagnosis
means and its specific relevance to the individual and family, assist with
setting realistic goals, and being present focused. In all cases open
communication is essential as diagnoses such as cancer still harbor social
anxiety leading to secrecy and confusion.
Performance Anxiety/Burnout: Performance anxiety and burnout can be
experienced by anyone involved in the performing arts, professions that are
service oriented, or with high visibility to the public sector. The demands
of such careers can lead to high expectations both real and imagined. The
tendency towards constant scrutiny either imposed upon by the professional
or the public can result in bouts of depression, fatigue, or addictive
behavior. In therapy, the client learns to pace her or himself, establish
healthy boundaries, employ stress reduction techniques, and schedule in
breaks and vacations. At times, the client may feel it’s necessary to
explore other career options. In determining whether a change in profession
is required the therapist helps the client gain clarity by reviewing values
and life style choices before a decision is finalized. The client is
encouraged to take time in making such assessments whether it be to modify
what they are currently doing, try a new approach, or pursue another
alternative.
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2012 NE 65th Street Seattle, WA ph: 206.523.5028 fax: 206.985.7021 |
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