Purpose of Therapy
Therapy can help you to feel better, be stronger, and learn to make choices that are good for you and make you feel good about yourself. Therapy is a learning process. Through therapy, you may discover more about yourself, such as what motivates you to behave the way you do and what inner strengths you have but might disregard or undervalue. You may discover new ways to overcome difficulties, make changes in yourself or your situation, or find new ways to handle yourself in tough situations. You may learn new coping skills, develop more patience, or learn to like yourself better. Additionally, it can feel good to be able to vent!
Our Approach
The most important component in therapy is a strong alliance between you and your therapist. A therapist is not a friend or family member that you need to impress or protect. This is a special relationship that allows you to talk about yourself and explore various aspects of your life without worrying what the other person may be thinking. We provide a safe, confidential, and encouraging environment to explore these issues. We listen attentively, give support, and are non-judgmental. Our style is energetic, enthusiastic, and positive.
We will work with you to create a treatment plan to meet the specific needs of you and your family. We will help you to incorporate your unique strengths and interests into your treatment plan. We strongly believe in the evidence-based benefits of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Family Systems Therapy and will often incorporate concepts and techniques from these therapeutic models into our work with you.
- CBT is based on the idea that our thoughts cause our feelings and behaviors. We examine, challenge, and alter our thoughts to facilitate emotional and behavioral change. CBT is especially helpful in treating depression, anxiety, and negative self-esteem.
- Family Systems Therapy is based on the idea that all family members contribute to both the origin and solution of emotional and behavioral difficulties. We work to strengthen communication, redefine roles, and restore healthy boundaries in order to improve both individual and family functioning.
Therapy is an active process. In order to change thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, you must be actively involved, honest, open, and committed. We will often give homework assignments to help you continue to learn and make progress throughout the week. You will make progress most quickly if you are committed to completing these assignments.
