I have extensive experience working with a range of ages from age 18 to older adults. I primarily utilize a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) approach to treatment. This practical application to problem-solving has proven highly effective when dealing with a wide range of issues. Some clients have seen me for help in dealing with lifelong depression, anxiety disorders, or bipolar disorders. Some have had a history of relationship conflicts with others and/or excessive emotional reactions.
I have also worked with clients who are usually "okay" emotionally, but need some extra support and assistance as they go through a rough time dealing with a particular stressor in their lives. Some of the more common issues I have dealt with include divorce, grief over a loss or death of a loved one, trauma over losing a physical functioning ability, the onset of health problems, the loss of a job, coping with an empty nest, transitioning from college to being an adult, and life changes such as retirement or the birth of a new child.
The following list, although not exhaustive, provides a general guide for those issues for which Cognitive Behavioral Therapy can be extremely useful:
Depression
Anxiety
Grief
Bipolar Disorder
Life Transitions
Excessive Guilt
Assertiveness Skills
Behavioral Issues
OCD
Divorce
Family Conflict
ADHD
Chronic Illness
Parenting
Chronic Impulsivity
Peer Relationships
Personality Disorders
Chronic Pain
Relationship Difficulties
Codependency
College Issues
Communication Skills
Social Skills
Sports Performance
Coping Skills
Stress Management
Weight Loss
Women's Issues
Anger
Length of Therapy:
I usually see my clients for weekly 50-minute sessions. The last 10 minutes of the hour, I set aside for note writing and planning out what we are going to accomplish during our next session. For some clients, I may suggest being seen twice per week. When clients start to feel better, they are seen less frequently. Of course, session frequency is always based on a client's particular needs.
It is important to note that therapy work does take time, depending on the issues involved. Clients should expect a minimum of 8-20 sessions. However, more serious issues may take years to work through.