My work with patients is informed by the following therapeutic approaches and fields of study:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
How we think and act in any given situation has great influence over how we experience life. Yet, we often believe that things are just the way they are. Our thoughts seem fixed, real or correct and our behavior, necessary or expected. What if our thoughts and behavior were choices, though? If we could alter some of the most basic ways we operate, we might see things differently. This approach teaches specific skills to change our natural and repetitive patterns in the moments they show up.
Solution-Focused or Brief Therapy
This approach to treatment is goal oriented, using therapy as a way to reach solutions rather than focus on symptoms or issues. Relief comes in practical choices or decisions, often quickly, and from a growing awareness that we have figured things out before. Soon we start to see ways to be successful again. Also, because we see that meaningful solutions are already within us, repeating them starts to feel natural and familiar.
Humanistic Psychology
This psychological perspective encourages viewing ourselves as a “whole” greater than the sum of our parts. It values self-exploration and says that human beings have a remarkable capacity for self-healing. Therapists who practice from this lens care in deep and genuine ways, act authentically, and relate to our patients’ feelings and experience as if they were our own.
Positive Psychology
This field of human study focuses on how our strengths can lead us to thrive. Its main premise is that we all want to live meaningful lives, develop what’s best within us and optimize our experience.