Why therapy and how might it help you?
Let me begin by saying I am a strong believer in the process and effectiveness of therapy, not for just some, but for all. One of the main predictors for successful counseling is the therapeutic relationship the client and therapist share. Because of that, I strive to create a safe, meaningful, and authentic relationship with each of my clients and I hope that my clients will join me in this work.
Choosing to pursue therapy inherently can feel somewhat risky. We often experience hurt, sadness, and anger in the context of relationships, but I believe it is through relationships that we find the invitation to create healing, growth, and love. When we are hurt, we learn to present ourselves in ways that are not really true to who we are; we often unconsciously change parts of ourselves to more easily “fit” with the people in our lives. While these are clever and adaptive ways of surviving during difficult times, these less authentic versions of ourselves eventually become unhelpful and ultimately create more distress. Eventually, we often begin to lose faith and trust in ourselves and our ability to make our best choices, making life a confusing and often frightening journey. My goal in therapy is to help my clients rediscover their true selves, learn to love and trust themselves, and to draw upon their innate strengths to create a more authentic and thus more meaningful life. I believe that when we are able to be our true selves anxiety, depression, and pain melt away.
Lastly, laughter is an important part of the therapeutic process and you can expect that we will do deep work together, as well as laugh together often while in session.