Nature of Counseling
The people I accept into counseling with me are those fully capable of resolving their own issues and concerns. The amount of sessions taken to resolve these issues could be few or many. If counseling is effective, you should be able to face the challenges of life on your own without my intervention.
Although our sessions may be very intimate emotionally and psychologically, it is important for you to realize that we have a professional relationship rather than a personal one. Our contact is limited to the scheduled sessions you have with me. Therefore, I will not be able to attend social gatherings with you, accept gifts from you, or have any relationship, other than a professional one, with you. You will learn a great deal about me as we work together during your counseling experience. However, it is important for you to remember that you are experiencing me only in my professional role.
• Offers & Services •
Marriage Counseling/Couples Therapy
I utilize the Gottman Method as the foundation for the work that I do with both marital and premarital couples. The Gottman Method is an approach to couples therapy that includes a thorough assessment (see below) of the couple’s relationship and integrates research-based interventions based on the Sound Relationship House Theory.
The goals of Gottman Method Couples Therapy are to disarm conflicting verbal communication; increase intimacy, respect, and affection; remove barriers that create a feeling of stagnancy; and create a heightened sense of empathy and understanding within the context of the relationship. To help you productively manage conflicts, you will be given methods to manage “resolvable problems” and dialogue about “gridlocked” (or perpetual) issues.
Children Therapy
In recent years a growing number of noted mental health professionals have observed that play is as important to human happiness and well-being as love and work (Schaefer, 1993). Some of the greatest thinkers of all time, including Aristotle and Plato, have reflected on why play is so fundamental in our lives. The following are some of the many benefits of play that have been described by play theorists.
Play is the child's language and Play is a fun, enjoyable activity that elevates our spirits and brightens our outlook on life. It expands self-expression, self-knowledge, self-actualization and self-efficacy. Play relieves feelings of stress and boredom, connects us to people in a positive way, stimulates creative thinking and exploration, regulates our emotions, and boosts our ego (Landreth, 2002). In addition, play allows us to practice skills and roles needed for survival. Learning and development are best fostered through play (Russ, 2004).
• Adult Women •
Pre-Natal
Are you suffering from extreme morning sickness or even HG? Not feeling supported by loved ones during this vulnerable time? Anxious about what your future holds as a new mom or introducing another baby to the home? Are you not in an ideal situation during this pregnancy? Have you suffered a loss of pregnancy? These are all fairly common (and not so common) stressors that pregnancy can induce.
No need to suffer alone, I have personal and professional experience in this area and can help guide you through this time with compassion to find you resiliency.
Post-Partum Depression / Anxiety
Feeling overwhelmed in this new unfamiliar role? Having intrusive thoughts? Are you finding yourself lashing out at your spouse? Feeling as though you are constantly on edge, never being able to relax? Have you suffered a loss of pregnancy? Is it the baby blues or postpartum depression/anxiety? It is extremely important to figure out which one you are experiencing then get help for it.
Postpartum issues, if left untreated, can worsen. You do not have to feel this way, you have the ability and right to be happy during this time, bond with your new baby, and feel in control of life.
Adjustments To Motherhood
Are you a first time mom wondering if you are doing the right things for your child? Is it too early to start looking at daycares and preschools? How to choose the right one? Are you struggling with getting a routine down or getting into a rhythm that feels like a healthy balance? Perhaps your older child is not adjusting well which means you are not adjusting well.
I can help from a solution focused approach to help problem solve while also holding space to provide you with the validation and empathy you need to make those changes. Being a parent is hard, don't let anyone try to tell you otherwise.
Adjustments To New Relationship
(With Spouse After Kids)
A new baby will change the dynamics of the household and between family members. If you are noticing more arguments between you and your spouse? Resentment over whos doing more or whos getting less sleep?
This may just be a phase of adjustment that is normal- here is where you will find the tools to foster that growth as a couple parenting a child together and learning how to do it in a loving way.
