I believe in three essential principles in my work as a psychologist:

— 1 —

The relationship between therapist and client is the most important factor in successful psychotherapy. I attempt to create a safe environment in which clients experience my support to explore meaningful aspects of their lives.

— 2 —

Each therapy client is unique, bringing differing needs and capabilities to our relationship. I am able to tailor a treatment plan for each client's requirements. because I have had a great deal of experience with various therapeutic modalities including Self Psychology, Relational Psychoanalysis, Gestalt Therapy, Intersubjectivity and EMDR.

— 3 —

Because I believe that most people have within themselves the resources for positive change, I do not see myself as a “doctor,” diagnosing them and giving them advice. I see my job is helping them discover and learn to use their resources to solve their problems and enhance their growth. If they don’t have those resources, I help them discover them.

 
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People have different goals in therapy:

  • I work on a long-term basis with those who want an intensive growth experience to become more creative and effective in discovering and reaching their goals. This fosters them in fulfilling their potential, improving and expanding their relationships with family members and friends, and in their work environments and their communities.

  • I use a short-term approach with those who want to deal with a specific problem. It might be the resolution of depression or intolerable grief caused by traumatic loss, the treatment of panic or anxiety disorders, the coming to terms with life choice and career issues, dealing with money problems, or working through a phobia. Phobias could include fear of certain animals, of doctors or dentists, or of leaving the home (agoraphobia).

  • I find the use of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) a powerful method for resolving post traumatic stress resulting from severe trauma such as physical or sexual attack, traffic accidents, work-related trauma, or the witnessing of violence. EMDR is also very useful in developing and installing needed resources in people who need help in handling intense emotions comfortably, and in increasing their self-confidence and self-esteem.

  • I work with couples to help them understand themselves and each other more fully, to communicate more effectively and to resolve conflict in constructive ways. This results in increased intimacy and the ability to work cooperatively in achieving both joint and individual goals.