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Approaches That I Use In My Work

Psychodynamic Approaches

My training in psychology has given me a strong psychodynamic foundation, which helps me to appreciate the influences of the past on who we are today. For example, your upbringing may contribute to being stuck in repetitive and unproductive patterns of thinking, feeling, or behaving. This is because early experiences shape attitudes about yourself and your relationships.

Cognitive-Behavioral Approaches

Relational & Attachment Approaches

Attachment theory provides a framework in psychotherapy for understanding how we relate to others. Relational and attachment approaches consider the quality of adult intimacy in terms of earlier relationships, including parent-child. In particular, the ability to develop a secure and trusting attachment is crucial. Since a successful client-therapist relationship is based on those same qualities, it in itself can contribute to change.

Cognitive-behavioral approaches are often useful in identifying negative self-talk and beliefs, and replacing them with more positive and realistic ways of thinking that promote growth and self-esteem.

Stress-Management Techniques

Stress management techniques are invaluable in coping with feelings of stress, anxiety or panic. These techniques include breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, visualization, guided imagery, yoga and meditation. Each can help you to create a greater sense of calm and well-being. Lifestyle changes also help to reduce stress, anxiety and depression.

Other Approaches

If needed, I use other techniques to enhance the effectiveness of those mentioned above, including Internal Family Systems, EMDR, communication skills training and clinical hypnotherapy.  Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a powerful approach to understanding, healing and integrating the many 'parts' of ourselves.  EMDR is a way of creating new neural pathways in the brain that can resolve traumatic memory and other unhealthy thought patterns and can build positive ways of thinking.
 

When appropriate, I work with psychiatrists and physicians to coordinate care, including the use of medication.

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