John Rubin

I am a seasoned therapist with many years of experience working with individuals struggling with various levels of Substance Use and Abuse, as well as individuals coping with anxiety/depressive symptoms. I am well-versed in many approaches to substance abuse treatment. I am easily engageable and first and foremost my goal is to create an environment where-in a client can feel comfortable and as easily as possible gain a feeling of trust and confidence in myself as a therapist and the process itself. You will find me extremely non-judgmental with a good sense of humor. Our job together is to to establish a connection to allow for comfortable conversation and a feeling of trust.

I have found that initially it can be very helpful to ask a client "why now"? It is not easy to ask for help and to address concerns you might have. The sooner we can establish a trusting relationship the easier our work can begin and problems that have been plaguing you can be addressed. Understanding what has been stopping or holding you back from seeking help can expedite our mission of getting to the problems or behaviors that one feels they need help with. I am respectful of an individuals personal goals. As concerns problems of Substance Use and Abuse, unless I feel concerned about the possibility of physical self-harm I allow for individuals to express and state their own goals. Be it lessening use or abuse or moving towards a life of total sobriety.

The first session we will spend time getting to know one another in the context of a therapeutic relationship. It can often take time to establish a connection and I do my best to allow for clients to find a level of comfort to foster the ability to address concerns that could be uncomfortable. I am aware that being in the position of "client" can be difficult and I am sensitive to how vulnerable it can be to open yourself up to another. Be assured that I have considerable experience of 21 years and am well aware that it is not easy to reach out and ask for help.