Jonathan MacFarlane

I am not what you probably think of when you imagine a therapist. I will probably be in jeans and a casual shirt. I'm not going to jot a bunch of notes while we talk, or ask you to lay on the couch (though you absolutely can if you want to). I'm probably going to try to make you laugh at least once. We're going to get some work done in session, but it's not going to be as formal or awkward as you might expect from how working with a shrink is usually portrayed in movies and TV.

I prefer to work from an existential theoretical framework. Existential therapists believe peace can be found in the midst of suffering through finding meaning in our lives. As Nietzche explained, "If we have our own why in life, we shall get along with almost any how." However, some problems require other forms of therapy and I am trained in these as well. I am also comfortable integrating clients' religious practices and beliefs, if desired.

The primary goal of counseling is to help you become the person you want to be, and/or work through the issues in your life that you want to address. My role is that of a guide, not a leader. You point to the destination, and I help you get there.