Reaching out for support for help is not an easy decision for many. This is why finding a good therapist fit is so important. This isn't your only chance to get help, but it is understandable to want each attempt at improving your lives to count. My goal in all my work is to bring a warm, supportive environment where you can been seen and heard. I know you would have already solved your own challenges if they were easy. This is why I enter therapeutic space with humility, acknowledging your expertise in yourself and your challenges. I will bring my experience guiding and supporting others through similar (but never the same) situations, as well as the wealth of knowledge generated by hard working researchers who are discovering new things every day about how to improve the treatment of various disorders. I read papers so you don't have to. It's my responsibility to stay up to date so you can be confident that the support you have is drawing from leading edge of the human expertise.
During our work together, I may ask to for your consent to record our sessions. Recording sessions is only done with your permission and active participation. Recording our sessions, watching the work we are doing together between our sessions, and seeking consultation with other experts in the field is part of my process to making sure you are getting the best care at my practice. Your privacy is extremely important to me, so I actively review my records processes to make sure they comply with HIPPA and the best practices for privacy.
While therapy often can be an meandering journey, with steps forward and steps back, I believe having a systemic approach and an adaptable conceptualization can prevent the journey from feeling like an endless one. I strongly value tracking progress and making sure there are realistic and obtainable goals. While the end result should include an increased sense fulfillment and a greater understanding of your own circumstances, data can help us to see in what way things have improved, and potentially point out room for further growth, or indicate if there is a more fruitful approach to a challenge.
I want to end this TED talk by saying, "I applaud you." Like I mentioned at the beginning, therapy is hard to choose. The fact that you are reading this means you are already looking for help for yourself, a loved one, or both. For those who have not done much therapy, I want to also let you know that it can be hard to go through the process of therapy as well. It is not easy to face fear, or to explore vulnerable places within yourself. I will provide you a safe and warm space to grow, but those don't take away the growing pains. They just make them more tolerable. However, the difficult journey can be worth it. It can bring you closer to making your life the way you want it to be.