I have been an LCSW since 1985 and have extensive clinical experience treating adults and the elderly. I enjoy helping others with depression, anxiety, adjustment difficulties, anger, PTSD, stress, relationship conflicts, and aging issues. For me, cognitive-behavioral therapy is the gold standard, but I use other modalities depending on the client's needs. I am a Navy veteran and often bring the military skills I learned into the therapeutic alliance.
My approach
I view psychotherapy as a partnership really, an honest and open collaboration between two people addressing those areas of concern and bringing the client to treatment. It is my experience that clients know themselves better than anyone. They are their own best resource in this kind of work. I am always mindful of that.
My focus
I see my purpose as helping clients move toward goals of their own choosing that may include feeling more peace and joy in life, having fulfilling relationships and feeling free to express emotions completely and without shame.
My communication style
My communication style is flexible depending on the clinical needs of the client and the context of the interaction. I have a casual, easy approach to psychotherapy. It is often scary, and I want to make the client as immediately comfortable as possible. I use much reflection to assure the client that they are being heard.
My journey to mental healthcare
My mother was a retired adoption social worker in the 1960s. That was an exciting time with many social and cultural changes. She introduced me to many wonderful people who began to teach me the importance of giving back on some level.
My first session with you
The first session is normally used to complete an initial evaluation. After introducing myself and explaining the HIPPA regulations, I'll offer a brief overview of my background and training. I want most of the first session to be about the client and why they reached out to PATH. "How can I help" is a question I typically ask.