~INDIVIDUAL THERAPY
Mental health challenges of depression, anxiety, stress, addiction, irritability, high reactivity and impulsivity are not inborn although some biological predispositions do exist for these conditions. Instead, usually our inner mental system somehow “learned” adaptations in a paradoxical attempt to protect us in some incomprehensible and undecipherable way. These adaptions (mental health conditions and diagnoses that I here refer to as “helpers” in quotes) can be conceived as well intentioned but ill-fated attempts to help. Ultimately, such “help” became self-defeating. The question then becomes: How to transform the underlying, ill-fated patterns, voices, parts into forms and roles aligned with organismic growth, harmony and well being? Of course, this is the million dollar question in mental health. There are no simple solutions in most cases. Yet millions attend therapy sessions every day with the hope of relief. Relief does often come but is not guaranteed. Good fit with the therapist is a proven factor raising the odds of a successful therapy. Beyond that, a therapeutic model that embraces human complexity, multiplicity and nuance is essential for progress and growth. This is where Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy enters. Insightful, potent and proven, this model delivers on all levels. Built on the shoulders of many heavyweight psychotherapeutic traditions, it is an integrative, systemic approach to grappling, relaxing and transforming psychological issues.
Consider the benefits for you of understanding:
- The origins of your unsustainable, ill-fated “helpers.”
- How to get to know and negotiate with these “helpers.”
- Approaches to assist the “helpers” with the release of their old, out-dated missions, roles and burdens.
- Strategies to encourage your “helpers” toward new updated, informed, collaborative roles that are beneficial to your life today.
Having gained these insights you will:
- Experience much relief from symptoms of depression, anxiety, irritability, reactivity and impulsivity.
- Feel confidence in your ability to handle your emotions and possess the skills to better navigate triggering situations.
- Enjoy higher levels of energy, mental clarity, inspiration and presence.
- Gain access to intuitive wisdom to guide life decisions, self care and relationship boundaries.
~COACHING FOR LIFE CHOICES
Do you find yourself struggling to “make up your mind” about an important decision? Big life choices are often difficult to navigate.
- Should I stay in this job or find another one?
- Should I root myself here or pick up and move to Ohio? NYC? Portugal?
- Should I stay single or get married?
- Should I remain with this partner or not?
- Should I have child or not?
- Should I get help or attempt self-healing?
Big life decisions are naturally difficult because the high stakes naturally fire up an internal battle between competing interests. Sometimes those interests are “pure and unburdened” which allows for a straight forward cost/benefit analysis. I could help you clarify and brainstorm on such an analysis and so could a trusted, objective friend or partner.
However, if the choice remains stuck and intractable, then there’s often something more happening than meets the eye of the rational mind. Competing and confusing feelings may arise from unknown sources. This is when it’s time to slow down and delve more deeply. The Internal Family Systems framework provides a well developed and evidence based approach to facilitate inner exploration. Application of this approach will help you:
- Know how to proceed when the choice seems intractable.
- Identify you own deeper truth and values
- Discover the wisdom of a deeper authentic guide self.
- Respond to self-limiting or other-limiting beliefs that hold you back from your most self-affirming choice.
Please note that coaching and therapy are two different services. Coaching is not regulated by the Board of Behavioral Sciences. Coaching also does not qualify for insurance coverage or reimbursement. Coaching services must be paid strictly out of pocket.
~
CHILD THERAPY
Has your child been exposed to an unfortunate early event or challenge? Childhood is a precious and vulnerable time. Unresolved issues from early years frequently have a lifetime impact. Thus it’s important to treat early. Rest assured that there are evidenced based therapies to gently ease your child back onto the path to healthy mental emotional development. Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) is just this type of therapy and is available in my practice. TF-CBT is a treatment model that incorporates various trauma-sensitive intervention components. It aims at individualizing techniques to children and their circumstances. TF-CBT is appropriate for both children and adolescents who have experienced traumatic life events. It is a short-term treatment (typically 12-16 sessions) that combines trauma-sensitive interventions with cognitive behavioral therapy strategies. It can also be used as part of a larger treatment plan for children with co-occuring emotional or developmental difficulties. TF-CBT includes individual sessions for both the child and the parents, as well as parent-child joint sessions. More details here.
