Patricia Aston

Hey there! I am Patricia Ann Aston. I am an experienced marriage and family therapist with a focus on helping individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, addictions, trauma, as well as PTSD. I understand the unique challenges that these issues can bring into people's lives. My approach to therapy is compassionate, evidence-based, and tailored to the specific needs of each client.

My approach

I believe in taking a holistic approach to treatment. This means considering the physical, emotional, social, and environmental factors that may contribute to a client's issues. I work collaboratively with clients to address all aspects of their well-being.

My focus

I help clients manage their depression and anxiety through a combination of therapeutic techniques, including mindfulness, relaxation exercises, and cognitive restructuring. I also explore the role of underlying issues and trauma in these conditions. For individuals dealing with addiction, I use evidence-based approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and relapse prevention strategies. I also involve family members when appropriate to provide support and educate them about addiction. When working with clients who have experienced trauma, I take a trauma-informed approach, creating a safe and supportive environment for healing. I may use trauma-focused therapies like Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).

My communication style

As a therapist, my goal would be to provide a non-judgmental and empathetic space for clients to explore their challenges, develop insights, and build the skills needed to improve their mental health and relationships. I would also stay current with the latest research and therapeutic techniques to ensure the best possible care for my clients.

My journey to mental healthcare

I decided to pursue a career in therapy because I personally experienced the profound benefits of therapy in my own life. Additionally, I dedicated 18 years of my professional life to working in drug treatment programs while I pursued my education to become a therapist. I have a deep passion for working with individuals who actively seek to transform various aspects of their lives and strive to reach their true potential.

My goals for you

As a therapist, my goal would be to provide a non-judgmental and empathetic space for clients to explore their challenges, develop insights, and build the skills needed to improve their mental health and relationships. I would also stay current with the latest research and therapeutic techniques to ensure the best possible care for my clients. I also would encourage clients to set Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound (SMART) goals. These goals should be clear, realistic, and have a specific timeframe for achievement. For example, a goal might be "Reduce symptoms of anxiety by 20% within the next three months."

My first session with you

As a therapist, I begin the initial session by warmly welcoming the client and creating a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere. I introduce myself, share my qualifications, and explain the therapeutic process, including confidentiality and any legal or ethical considerations. I focus on building a strong rapport and trust with the client, engaging in friendly conversation to help them feel comfortable before transitioning into discussing the purpose of our session. I encourage the client to open up about their reasons for seeking therapy, as well as their current challenges, struggles, or symptoms. I actively listen, providing empathy and support, and I ask questions to gain a better understanding of their goals and what they hope to achieve through therapy. During this session, I conduct a thorough assessment, which includes exploring the client's personal history, family background, medical history, and any relevant life events. This helps me gain insight into the context and factors contributing to their current situation. I also discuss the client's expectations from therapy, their specific goals, and what success means to them. This sets the foundation for our collaborative goal-setting in future sessions. In addition, I may offer psychoeducation about the client's concerns or mental health issues, explaining the nature of their symptoms, potential causes, and the therapeutic approaches that may be employed. Throughout the session, I ask open-ended questions to encourage the client to express themselves freely and clarify any aspects of their experiences. Toward the end of the session, I work with the client to outline our initial treatment plan, which includes the frequency of sessions, the therapeutic approach to be used, and any referrals or additional assessments that may be needed. I address any questions or concerns the client may have about the therapeutic process, including confidentiality, fees, and scheduling, and we collaborate to schedule future therapy sessions. Finally, I conclude the session by summarizing our discussion, expressing my commitment to supporting the client, and ensuring they feel heard and respected.