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My name is Richard Soper and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I've been in practice for 7 years helping patients with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life transitions, and coping with diabetes.
My approach
I believe that by acknowledging and nurturing our talents and positive attributes we can outgrow any problem. I use a variety of Strengths-Based Techniques and Cognitive Therapies (CBT, CT-R).
My focus
My typical client is looking for a change, but not always aware of how to go about it or what it will look like when they get there. I have broad experience addressing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life transitions, low self-esteem, and life transitions just to name a few. I have special training in CT-R, an alternative to traditional CBT which may work even if therapy hasn't been effective in treating your depression in the past.
My communication style
I work to create a non-judgmental and affirming environment where you can explore, process, and feel. Certain elements of assessment and treatment planning can make initial sessions feel structured, but as we progress the experience becomes more conversational, with room for insight and skills building. I like to take my time and look at how all aspects of a problem or situation interact. If I'm stating my views on a situation, it's to check whether you feel the same way, not to tell you how things are.
My goals for you
I place more emphasis on setting and reviewing goals than most therapists. I can't possibly help you achieve your goals if I don't know what they are, or don't have any way of knowing that you've reached them. As we work together, I will revise your treatment plan with you to reflect on what I know about you, what you want, and what skills or interventions of mine might help you get there. As I get to know you better my understanding of your presenting problems and the sorts of things that might be helpful will improve. I'd like to refine our treatment plan to match. Also, if things start to stagnate or relapse, it can be helpful to review the progress you've made and embrace proof of your ability to grow. "Maybe you had a panic attack for the first time in weeks this month, but when we started working together you were averaging three a week; you have so much more control over this than you used to."
My first session with you
I conduct an assessment during the first session. This is mostly me listening to you and asking that you provide more detail about the important issues. I take a "whole person" approach, so I may ask you about your past, your health, your employment, etc. so I can get an understanding of how you see the presenting problem and how I can be helpful. I ask you to consent to a treatment plan during this session and the goal of that treatment plan is often to further explore your presenting problem.
