I am a clinical social worker (doctorate in social work) specializing in the issues that emerge within relationships for an individual or a romantic couple. The hope is that love conquers all, but at times love benefits from the helping hand of a skillful professional. I am fortunate to have had the opportunity to provide such for many men and women over the last 35 years.
While clients will observe my style as a therapist, the focus is on their learning about the self. I am working to bring useful information to the self from the self. I, of course, process this information as well while learning more about the client. The goal is progressive communication, meaning that the words said stimulate the use of more words and complete the thoughts.
People tend not to like surprises, unless it is a birthday party! As the patient clarifies what brought him or her to my office, I will initially build around the area highlighted by the person. This entails clarification confirming the mutual understanding of our conversation. Usually, the question “why are you here today” will touch on the root of the subject in question. And set the stage for potential follow up visits.
The first session gradually becomes an exercise in talking, which everyone basically knows how to do already with differing degrees of success. The decision to start therapy emphasizes the process of putting your thoughts and feelings into words. This consists of communicating with yourself as well as with me, the therapist. Talking can be compared to playing the piano where the keys are made of words. The goal of the talking is to explore your inner world with the assistance of your tour guide, the therapist.
