Individual Therapy

Individual therapy offers a private, totally confidential place in which to explore the sources of the problems in your life. Some people who seek therapy are struggling to create or sustain intimate, fulfilling relationships. Others feel blocked in their parenting, career, or emotional well-being. Many come to therapy with feelings of inadequacy and low self-worth. They are not broken or “sick”—they are simply human, dealing with the emotional complexities that can hold any of us back.

My approach is personal and involved. I am a good listener with a lot of empathy and I have been doing this work for many years. I know what needs to change. I offer honest, respectful feedback and will challenge you to explore the behaviors and patterns that are holding you back. New patients often tell me they’re surprised by how quickly they’re able to open up with me. I work hard to create a relationship that feels safe and supportive so we can talk honestly and openly.

Individual therapy can give you a greater awareness of yourself and people who are important to you. Together we can explore your problems, identify their causes and work on developing the self-awareness, perspective, skills and strategies you need to lead a more fulfilling life. As we work, I can point out ways that you behave in your relationship with me that are working and also not working for you in other relationships. For example, I might point out that you have a tendency to smile when you feel sad. Like many people, You learned this as a way to protect yourself when you are feeling vulnerable. I might say to you, “I understand why you needed that protection when you were a child because your parents withdrew whenever you showed vulnerable feelings. They did not know how to deal with your feelings. Unlike your parents, however,I do know how to respond to your vulnerability and help you. In our relationship I want to hear about your feelings because they do not threaten me and actually make me feel closer to you. If you were able to share your true vulnerable feelings with your wife, she might also respond in a caring manner.  If, however, you continue to be withholding with your feelings and remain invulnerable, I fear she may choose to leave your relationship and seek a man who can be emotionally close and vulnerable with her. She seems at the end of her rope”.

Insight alone is not enough. Lasting change requires deep motivation and most people are not as motivated as they need to be for lasting change. I can help you find what underlies your resistance to change and how to overcome it. In our relationship, I will ally with the part of you that wants to change and grow—helping you move beyond resistance and find the “heat” you need to live more boldly and authentically.