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I'm Peter Shorts, LCSW practicing in California and on the Big Island in Kailua Kona and Pahoa. Therapy can be a journey of discovery, recovery, and healing as we seek to understand the context of life, constellation of relationships, and our internal emotional landscape. Uncovering our deeper needs being sought, and their imprint on our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
My approach
My therapeutic lens is grounded in an awareness of the impact of trauma, and development of core beliefs connected to real experiences and its impact on how we see ourselves and our place in the world. There are many lenses providing clarity including CBT, REBT, DBT, narrative, integrative, psychodynamic, and solution-focused frameworks. This scaffolding enables us to gain multiple perspectives on a subjective experience called life.
My focus
An ideal client actively embraces the fluid and ongoing process of change, serving as a participant rather than a spectator in the journey toward honesty, intimacy, and authenticity. Ideal clients comprehend the vital role of setting goals within the therapeutic framework and are architects in identifying, designing, and navigating the pathway toward these objectives. An ideal client actively engages in the therapeutic process, recognizes the distinction between internal and external realities, and plays a pivotal role in setting and achieving goals. Together, we embark on a transformative journey toward authenticity.
My communication style
The feedback is one of warmth, compassion, and understanding allowing others to co-create emotional and physical safety. This allows us to authentically engage in the process of honesty and intimacy, giving words and meaning to our emotions, thoughts, and experiences. It is a curious, non-judgmental space with boundaries and safety.
My journey to mental healthcare
It was at the urging of a therapist that I consider taking the wisdom learned throughout my life and the compassion and understanding that came from the hard work in therapy and re-write my life story from trauma-saturated childhood and life as a social worker, and narcotics task force agent and help others unpack their invisible suitcases. Just a seasoned guide to help others find their way back into the sun.
My goals for you
My approach is grounded in a trauma-informed perspective. I view the therapeutic journey as an opportunity for individuals to gain awareness of the profound impact past experiences have on self-perception and interactions with the world. My goal is to assist people in comprehending how adversity shapes their behavior and finding healthier ways of being. Let's co-create a space of openness and honesty as we embark on this shared journey. I commit to providing the respect, honesty, and authenticity I ask of you. I invite you to journey with me to collaboratively build a life that serves you best.
My first session with you
A comfortable, non-judgmental space, to walk through some of our preconceived notions about therapy, find our voice, and be seen as we haven't fully been. The beginning of a process, self-paced, toward trust and authenticity, one conversation at a time.
