FAQ
Do I need therapy?
If you’re asking this question, most likely you’ve exhausted all of your options in trying to figure things out on your own. Or you’re faced with a problem or decision and need help with from someone you’re not emotionally attached to.
Making the decision to begin therapy is not easy. Patients often tell me they’ve carried around my business card for weeks or months before finally calling for an appointment. If you’re not sure you want to make a commitment, scheduling a consultation will give you the opportunity to discuss what you would like to accomplish, receive a diagnostic evaluation, see if we’re a good fit, and hear my recommendations for treatment.
While I work with patients with long histories of mental illness, the majority of the patients I see are functioning at a fairly high level but feeling empty, stressed, disconnected or stuck in a rut. The first thing many people say as the session begins is that they never thought they’d be sitting on a therapists couch.
Others worry that their partner will use their decision to seek therapy as a confirmation that they’re the “crazy” one. On the contrary, people who seek therapy are not necessarily the more damaged one – they’re the one smart enough to make the decision to improve their lives and feel better.
How do I schedule an appointment?
That's easy as 1,2,3.
Step 1: Go to list of services and choose the one you'd like.
Step 2: Schedule your appointment or choose the class date that best suits your time frame.
Step 3: Complete the new patient or the class registration forms.
Enjoy the rest of your day knowing you have taken care of your most important asset-YOU!
What can I expect?
During the first session, the reasons for seeking counseling, current problems and concerns, past history, screening for symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options will be discussed. I will make sure we are on the same page regarding how to proceed and let you know my recommendations.
There will be times you’ll feel great after our sessions. Other times, you may feel drained immediately following or a short time after. This is to be expected. Pay special attention to your diet, exercise, and sleep while you are in therapy. It’s hard work.
How often do I need to go?
Most patients attend weekly therapy sessions. Especially in the beginning, it’s important to meet on a regular basis so we get to know one another, establish trust, and get into working on the problems that brought you to therapy. I understand that therapy is an investment of time and money. Too much time in between sessions will cost you more time and money in the long run. It’s like going to the gym once a month and expecting to see results.
If a patient is in crisis or having a breakthrough, sessions can be increased to two or three times a week, and then cut back to weekly appointments. As treatment goals are achieved, I recommend cutting back to bi-monthly or monthly sessions to monitor progress.
I’m a successful, intelligent person and know what my problem is. Why can’t I solve it myself?
Whether you are a genius or even another therapist, it’s impossible to step outside yourself. I can see you but I can’t see myself. Here two brains are better than one. No matter how hard you try, how many self-help books you read that make perfect sense, your brain has been trained to think one way thus can’t find new solutions no matter how hard you try.
In therapy, when talking about yourselves, your beliefs, and problems, patients are stunned how different something sounds when it’s said out loud. For many, this is the first of many ah ha moments. Once something is put “out there”, we can step back and see what it means.
There are other reasons a person is unable to move forward like illness, early faulty attachment, sexual, physical and emotional abuse, death of a loved one, untreated mental illness, addictions, and affairs. Left unhealed, these events will continue to wreak havoc in your life.
Even if you are a proficient problem solver, the answer you are seeking may require digging deeper inside to find the core of the dilemma you are grabbling with. There’s a huge difference between problem solving and living fully.
Does someone have to be ready for therapy in order for it to work?
It used to be believed that being forced to go to therapy was a waste of time. But current research has found that whether a person willingly seeks therapy, is dragged in by their parents, attends to appease a partner, sent by HR, or mandated by the courts, the outcome was the same. Surprised? I was too.
How do you work with teens?
Typically, I invite parents in for the beginning of the session so that they can state their concerns about their child with him or her present so we’re all on the same page. Especially for teens, it’s hard for them to tell on themselves. I let the child and parents know that what we discuss is confidential and that ethically and legally I’m bound to this contract. The only exception is if the child expresses plans to harm themselves or someone else, if they are being sexually or physically abused or if my records are court ordered.
If parents want to know how the therapy is progressing, I gladly set a family session where I’ll provide information regarding our goals, the progress the patient is making, and offer advice on how to handle situations. Sometimes parents need some support in managing their own emotions, addressing problems in their marriage or help in improving their parenting skills, in which case, I’ll offer appropriate referrals.
Often I receive phone calls from parents that start off with them saying, “I just found out such-and-such but you can’t let them know I told you.” At this point, I stop the conversation and let the parent know that I’d be glad to discuss whatever they want to tell me with their child but in information in order to maintain trust and not collude with them, I will let the patient know how I got the information.
Trusting an adult is difficult for teens. They’re at a developmental stage where they’re pulling away from their parents and formulating their own identity. No matter how close families are, friends become the ones they confide in and seek out for answers and support. Wouldn’t you feel more comfortable as a parent knowing that your child is getting advice from someone over fifteen?
How long does it take?
If I had a magic wand-- poof -- I would make your problems disappear… and I’d be the most sought after therapist in town.
That depends upon what you’re looking to accomplish. If you have a specific situation or problem you want to address but don’t have the finances, time, or energy to invest in psychotherapy, I can work within your time frame.
But most problems are not merely a matter of circumstances that happened over night. Often, they are deep rooted and will eventually reappear in time. While getting to the origin of the problem does take time, once you understand why and where your difficulties come from, you can make different choices that will give you a happier and healthier life.
After our initial consultation, I’ll be able to give you a much better idea about how long treatment will take. In my many years of experience, honestly, there is no quick fix. It’s like trying to put a band aid on a deep wound.
I've been in therapy before. What makes you different from other therapists?
I came into the field of psychology via my artistic background. I was not trying to figure myself out. I was fascinated by the art created by psychotic patients and wanted to help them have a voice, work out problems, heal, and live in the world instead of their heads. I continue to take a humanistic rather than “clinical” approach to my practice and draw upon my many years of clinical experience, training, and education.
I was trained in a psychiatric hospital where I saw, first hand, what happens when the mind and spirit are lost. It was at the largest county-run hospital in the U.S., that I learned the healing quality of not only the therapy, but the therapist.
I will give you feedback. I will react. If something doesn’t make sense, I’ll point it out. I’m also compassionate and want to understand your story. When I do, I will help you learn how to honor your authentic voice, write pages that introduce new themes, close chapters when necessary, be an active protagonist in your story, and keep the plot moving towards a happy ending.
What type of approach do you use?
Even though I am creative, I’m also very positive and logical. I am skilled at offering options and find that the sensible solution is often the simplest and most rewarding.
The type of approach I use depends upon your response and what you are looking to accomplish. I have education, training, and experience in many modalities such as cognitive therapy, clinical sexology, psychodynamics, positive psychology, and art therapy. I also have treated a wide variety of patient populations and worked in a variety of settings.
If standing on my head helps you change your point of view, I’ll do it!
What is your education and experience?
I have been trained in psychoanalytic theory, humanistic psychology, rational emotive behavioral therapy, and have specialties in art therapy as well as clinical sexology. I have a B.F.A. with Honors in fine arts from Pratt Institute; an M.A. in Clinical Psychology from Goddard College; and a Ph.D. in Human Sexuality from Institute for Advanced Study of Human Sexuality. I’m a licensed psychotherapist; Board Certified in Clinical Sexology; Board Certified in Art Therapy; Florida approved supervisor for Mental Health Counselor Interns, Social Work Interns, Marriage and Family Therapy Interns, and licensed psychotherapist seeking sex therapy credentialing; supervisor for art therapy and sex therapy students; and a Florida approved provider for continuing education.
I’ve worked in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, out-patient facilities, and private practice and have seen thousands of patients. You can find more details in my resume.
I don’t want to spend years on your couch.
My job is to get you out of therapy as quickly as I can. My job is to never see you again. I am intuitive, sharp, and experienced. I can cut right to the chase but will slow down the process if you become too flooded. I’ll never let you leave a session until you’re put back together.
How did you get into clinical sexology?
When I first started my private practice, I rented an office in a physical therapy center and a thirty year old quadriplegic man came to see me due to depression. I wasn't surprised. He’d been paralyzed for ten years. But I was surprised when he told me his depression was because he’d lost his ability to express his sexuality. At that moment, I realized the one required class I had in human sexuality had not prepared me for this. Sexuality did not equal orgasm.
I enrolled in a certificate program and met the state qualifications for sex therapy but there was still so much to learn. So I enrolled in a Human Sexuality doctoral program.
One advantage of using sex therapy is that it’s faster than traditional therapy and focuses solely on what is often the place where problems are painfully felt. It’s difficult to hide when you’re naked.
What age groups do you work with?
I have experience in treating all ages. My youngest patient was a two year old whose father died and art therapy was a great modality. I’ve done a lot of grief work with children. My oldest sex therapy patient was an 80 year old woman who sought tips on managing pain while still enjoying afternoon delights with her husband.
I work with teens and love the population – better in my office than at home! I’ve seen a growing number of young adults in transitional stages like college-to-career and am well versed with their concerns. These years are real stage setters. It thrills me when a young person seeks counseling before kids, partners, career, failed relationships, and life style have been established. What a way to start off in the world – knowing that you can get help and don’t have to struggle.
What is the difference between a psychotherapist and a clinical sexologist?
A psychologist, social worker, psychotherapist, marriage counselor, and other health care providers typically complete one course in Human Sexuality. The range of behaviors, varied psychosexual development, experiences, concerns and treatments, questions about and resources for sexuality that walk through my door on a daily basis was not remotely addressed in one class.
Often individuals and/or couples come to see me after they’ve been in previous treatment with therapists who are not sexologists because their intimacy problems did not improve. Instead, their sessions focused on communication, family of origin issues, etc. and the topic of sex was scooted around. I’ll not only help you repair your sexual relationships, I’ll provide you with ways to improve and enhance your sexual expression and enjoyment.
There are celebs, authors, talk show hosts, pop psychologists, and even a woman with a Ph.D. in science who call themselves relationship docs – with or without the credentials.
So what are the credentials? Clinical sexologists tend to have Ph.D.’s in Human Sexuality and many are affiliated with universities, conducting research, and dedicated to helping people enjoy
I never know what someone is wearing under their clothing -- for real.
I have a relationship problem that has nothing to do with sex. Can you help me?
Problems with interpersonal relationships like many sexual difficulties have their roots in difficulty with intimacy. Traumatic or faulty early attachment interferes with the ability to connect in a healthy and satisfying way with others.
While relationship problems may be the initial and most common reason someone seeks therapy very often, it’s their relationship with themselves that is at the root of the problem.
What types of issues and problems are you qualified to treat?
My interest areas include adolescent sexuality, female sexuality, male sexuality, compulsive sexual behavior, transgender (adolescents and adults), passionate relationships, sexual abuse, raising sexually healthy children, couple relationships and communication, sexuality and the media, and sexual pop culture and trends.
The issues and problems I am qualified to treat include; Life Transitions, Child/Teen Problems, Intimacy, Anger Management, Sexual Abuse, Cognitive Restructuring, Anxiety, Depression, Bi-Polar and Mood Disorders, Cross Dressing, Compulsive Sexual Behavior including Internet Porn, Depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Phobias, Men’s Issues, Women’s Issues, Affairs, Personality Disorders, ADD/ADHD, Psychotherapy for People in Recovery, Attachment Disorders, Trauma, Grief and Loss, Transgender, Lesbian and Gay Population, Blended Family, Divorce Adjustment, Work-related Stress, and Sexuality Concerns for those with Physical Disabilities and Chronic Illness.
I’m afraid therapy will change who I am.
During the first appointment, patients have a long list of issues they want help with. They want to tackle problems once and for all and start living a happier, more productive and fulfilling life.
They’re tired of repeating destructive patterns, blaming others, having failed relationships, being controlled by their anxiety and depression, and not confronting people and situations and/or fearful of making changes due to lack of confidence.
After a couple of sessions, most patients report that they’re feeling better. This is a crucial stage in therapy. Although patients come to therapy seeking change, once it starts happening, fear often sets in. They start minimizing the problems that brought them to therapy, want to cut back on sessions, and become less invested during therapy.
When I bring this to their attention, they often tell me that despite their quirks and difficulties, they really like who they are and fear therapy will alter their unique qualities. The goal in therapy is not to change who you are but to help you re-discover your own voice – inner self -- to help guide you in the direction you know you need to go – and clear out the obstacles in your way.
Do you offer phone and Skype sessions?
Yes. Phone or Skype sessions are available for patients and couples who live out of state or the country. This service is also available for current patients who are traveling for work or pleasure as well as those who need an immediate session and are unable to get to my office. Skype allows you to have the same therapeutic experience as if we were talking in my office. Skype is a free internet service that is easy to set up. If your computer or laptop does not have a video camera, you can purchase one at a minimal cost.
Can I email you a question?
I often receive requests from people I do not know who want a quick answer to a complicated question. Without knowing anything about your background and without sufficient information regarding why you are asking this question, I would be doing you a disservice in providing a generic answer. You can schedule a consultation so that we have the proper amount of time to address your concern.
If you are a current patient and have a quick follow-up question from our session or want to dash me a note about something you’d like to discuss during our scheduled appointment, I will certainly send you a response. Like phone calls in between sessions, I’ll gladly provide you with an answer but if reading and sending a response requires more than ten minutes, you will be charged for the time.
For questions that do not require my therapeutic skills like if I treat patients with your problem; how to broach the topic of suggesting therapy with your partner, children, or friend; or if I’m available to speak to your organization, you can reach me at 954-346-7066 or email your question.
Do I need therapy?
If you’re asking this question, most likely you’ve exhausted all of your options in trying to figure things out on your own. Or you’re faced with a problem or decision and need help with from someone you’re not emotionally attached to.
Making the decision to begin therapy is not easy. Patients often tell me they’ve carried around my business card for weeks or months before finally calling for an appointment. If you’re not sure you want to make a commitment, scheduling a consultation will give you the opportunity to discuss what you would like to accomplish, receive a diagnostic evaluation, see if we’re a good fit, and hear my recommendations for treatment.
While I work with patients with long histories of mental illness, the majority of the patients I see are functioning at a fairly high level but feeling empty, stressed, disconnected or stuck in a rut. The first thing many people say as the session begins is that they never thought they’d be sitting on a therapists couch.
Others worry that their partner will use their decision to seek therapy as a confirmation that they’re the “crazy” one. On the contrary, people who seek therapy are not necessarily the more damaged one – they’re the one smart enough to make the decision to improve their lives and feel better.
How do I schedule an appointment?
That's easy as 1,2,3.
Step 1: Go to list of services and choose the one you'd like.
Step 2: Schedule your appointment or choose the class date that best suits your time frame.
Step 3: Complete the new patient or the class registration forms.
Enjoy the rest of your day knowing you have taken care of your most important asset-YOU!
What can I expect?
During the first session, the reasons for seeking counseling, current problems and concerns, past history, screening for symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options will be discussed. I will make sure we are on the same page regarding how to proceed and let you know my recommendations.
There will be times you’ll feel great after our sessions. Other times, you may feel drained immediately following or a short time after. This is to be expected. Pay special attention to your diet, exercise, and sleep while you are in therapy. It’s hard work.
How often do I need to go?
Most patients attend weekly therapy sessions. Especially in the beginning, it’s important to meet on a regular basis so we get to know one another, establish trust, and get into working on the problems that brought you to therapy. I understand that therapy is an investment of time and money. Too much time in between sessions will cost you more time and money in the long run. It’s like going to the gym once a month and expecting to see results.
If a patient is in crisis or having a breakthrough, sessions can be increased to two or three times a week, and then cut back to weekly appointments. As treatment goals are achieved, I recommend cutting back to bi-monthly or monthly sessions to monitor progress.
I’m a successful, intelligent person and know what my problem is. Why can’t I solve it myself?
Whether you are a genius or even another therapist, it’s impossible to step outside yourself. I can see you but I can’t see myself. Here two brains are better than one. No matter how hard you try, how many self-help books you read that make perfect sense, your brain has been trained to think one way thus can’t find new solutions no matter how hard you try.
In therapy, when talking about yourselves, your beliefs, and problems, patients are stunned how different something sounds when it’s said out loud. For many, this is the first of many ah ha moments. Once something is put “out there”, we can step back and see what it means.
There are other reasons a person is unable to move forward like illness, early faulty attachment, sexual, physical and emotional abuse, death of a loved one, untreated mental illness, addictions, and affairs. Left unhealed, these events will continue to wreak havoc in your life.
Even if you are a proficient problem solver, the answer you are seeking may require digging deeper inside to find the core of the dilemma you are grabbling with. There’s a huge difference between problem solving and living fully.
Does someone have to be ready for therapy in order for it to work?
It used to be believed that being forced to go to therapy was a waste of time. But current research has found that whether a person willingly seeks therapy, is dragged in by their parents, attends to appease a partner, sent by HR, or mandated by the courts, the outcome was the same. Surprised? I was too.
How do you work with teens?
Typically, I invite parents in for the beginning of the session so that they can state their concerns about their child with him or her present so we’re all on the same page. Especially for teens, it’s hard for them to tell on themselves. I let the child and parents know that what we discuss is confidential and that ethically and legally I’m bound to this contract. The only exception is if the child expresses plans to harm themselves or someone else, if they are being sexually or physically abused or if my records are court ordered.
If parents want to know how the therapy is progressing, I gladly set a family session where I’ll provide information regarding our goals, the progress the patient is making, and offer advice on how to handle situations. Sometimes parents need some support in managing their own emotions, addressing problems in their marriage or help in improving their parenting skills, in which case, I’ll offer appropriate referrals.
Often I receive phone calls from parents that start off with them saying, “I just found out such-and-such but you can’t let them know I told you.” At this point, I stop the conversation and let the parent know that I’d be glad to discuss whatever they want to tell me with their child but in information in order to maintain trust and not collude with them, I will let the patient know how I got the information.
Trusting an adult is difficult for teens. They’re at a developmental stage where they’re pulling away from their parents and formulating their own identity. No matter how close families are, friends become the ones they confide in and seek out for answers and support. Wouldn’t you feel more comfortable as a parent knowing that your child is getting advice from someone over fifteen?
How long does it take?
If I had a magic wand-- poof -- I would make your problems disappear… and I’d be the most sought after therapist in town.
That depends upon what you’re looking to accomplish. If you have a specific situation or problem you want to address but don’t have the finances, time, or energy to invest in psychotherapy, I can work within your time frame.
But most problems are not merely a matter of circumstances that happened over night. Often, they are deep rooted and will eventually reappear in time. While getting to the origin of the problem does take time, once you understand why and where your difficulties come from, you can make different choices that will give you a happier and healthier life.
After our initial consultation, I’ll be able to give you a much better idea about how long treatment will take. In my many years of experience, honestly, there is no quick fix. It’s like trying to put a band aid on a deep wound.
I've been in therapy before. What makes you different from other therapists?
I came into the field of psychology via my artistic background. I was not trying to figure myself out. I was fascinated by the art created by psychotic patients and wanted to help them have a voice, work out problems, heal, and live in the world instead of their heads. I continue to take a humanistic rather than “clinical” approach to my practice and draw upon my many years of clinical experience, training, and education.
I was trained in a psychiatric hospital where I saw, first hand, what happens when the mind and spirit are lost. It was at the largest county-run hospital in the U.S., that I learned the healing quality of not only the therapy, but the therapist.
I will give you feedback. I will react. If something doesn’t make sense, I’ll point it out. I’m also compassionate and want to understand your story. When I do, I will help you learn how to honor your authentic voice, write pages that introduce new themes, close chapters when necessary, be an active protagonist in your story, and keep the plot moving towards a happy ending.
What type of approach do you use?
Even though I am creative, I’m also very positive and logical. I am skilled at offering options and find that the sensible solution is often the simplest and most rewarding.
The type of approach I use depends upon your response and what you are looking to accomplish. I have education, training, and experience in many modalities such as cognitive therapy, clinical sexology, psychodynamics, positive psychology, and art therapy. I also have treated a wide variety of patient populations and worked in a variety of settings.
If standing on my head helps you change your point of view, I’ll do it!
What is your education and experience?
I have been trained in psychoanalytic theory, humanistic psychology, rational emotive behavioral therapy, and have specialties in art therapy as well as clinical sexology. I have a B.F.A. with Honors in fine arts from Pratt Institute; an M.A. in Clinical Psychology from Goddard College; and a Ph.D. in Human Sexuality from Institute for Advanced Study of Human Sexuality. I’m a licensed psychotherapist; Board Certified in Clinical Sexology; Board Certified in Art Therapy; Florida approved supervisor for Mental Health Counselor Interns, Social Work Interns, Marriage and Family Therapy Interns, and licensed psychotherapist seeking sex therapy credentialing; supervisor for art therapy and sex therapy students; and a Florida approved provider for continuing education.
I’ve worked in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, out-patient facilities, and private practice and have seen thousands of patients. You can find more details in my resume.
I don’t want to spend years on your couch.
My job is to get you out of therapy as quickly as I can. My job is to never see you again. I am intuitive, sharp, and experienced. I can cut right to the chase but will slow down the process if you become too flooded. I’ll never let you leave a session until you’re put back together.
How did you get into clinical sexology?
When I first started my private practice, I rented an office in a physical therapy center and a thirty year old quadriplegic man came to see me due to depression. I wasn't surprised. He’d been paralyzed for ten years. But I was surprised when he told me his depression was because he’d lost his ability to express his sexuality. At that moment, I realized the one required class I had in human sexuality had not prepared me for this. Sexuality did not equal orgasm.
I enrolled in a certificate program and met the state qualifications for sex therapy but there was still so much to learn. So I enrolled in a Human Sexuality doctoral program.
One advantage of using sex therapy is that it’s faster than traditional therapy and focuses solely on what is often the place where problems are painfully felt. It’s difficult to hide when you’re naked.
What age groups do you work with?
I have experience in treating all ages. My youngest patient was a two year old whose father died and art therapy was a great modality. I’ve done a lot of grief work with children. My oldest sex therapy patient was an 80 year old woman who sought tips on managing pain while still enjoying afternoon delights with her husband.
I work with teens and love the population – better in my office than at home! I’ve seen a growing number of young adults in transitional stages like college-to-career and am well versed with their concerns. These years are real stage setters. It thrills me when a young person seeks counseling before kids, partners, career, failed relationships, and life style have been established. What a way to start off in the world – knowing that you can get help and don’t have to struggle.
What is the difference between a psychotherapist and a clinical sexologist?
A psychologist, social worker, psychotherapist, marriage counselor, and other health care providers typically complete one course in Human Sexuality. The range of behaviors, varied psychosexual development, experiences, concerns and treatments, questions about and resources for sexuality that walk through my door on a daily basis was not remotely addressed in one class.
Often individuals and/or couples come to see me after they’ve been in previous treatment with therapists who are not sexologists because their intimacy problems did not improve. Instead, their sessions focused on communication, family of origin issues, etc. and the topic of sex was scooted around. I’ll not only help you repair your sexual relationships, I’ll provide you with ways to improve and enhance your sexual expression and enjoyment.
There are celebs, authors, talk show hosts, pop psychologists, and even a woman with a Ph.D. in science who call themselves relationship docs – with or without the credentials.
So what are the credentials? Clinical sexologists tend to have Ph.D.’s in Human Sexuality and many are affiliated with universities, conducting research, and dedicated to helping people enjoy
I never know what someone is wearing under their clothing -- for real.
I have a relationship problem that has nothing to do with sex. Can you help me?
Problems with interpersonal relationships like many sexual difficulties have their roots in difficulty with intimacy. Traumatic or faulty early attachment interferes with the ability to connect in a healthy and satisfying way with others.
While relationship problems may be the initial and most common reason someone seeks therapy very often, it’s their relationship with themselves that is at the root of the problem.
What types of issues and problems are you qualified to treat?
My interest areas include adolescent sexuality, female sexuality, male sexuality, compulsive sexual behavior, transgender (adolescents and adults), passionate relationships, sexual abuse, raising sexually healthy children, couple relationships and communication, sexuality and the media, and sexual pop culture and trends.
The issues and problems I am qualified to treat include; Life Transitions, Child/Teen Problems, Intimacy, Anger Management, Sexual Abuse, Cognitive Restructuring, Anxiety, Depression, Bi-Polar and Mood Disorders, Cross Dressing, Compulsive Sexual Behavior including Internet Porn, Depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Phobias, Men’s Issues, Women’s Issues, Affairs, Personality Disorders, ADD/ADHD, Psychotherapy for People in Recovery, Attachment Disorders, Trauma, Grief and Loss, Transgender, Lesbian and Gay Population, Blended Family, Divorce Adjustment, Work-related Stress, and Sexuality Concerns for those with Physical Disabilities and Chronic Illness.
I’m afraid therapy will change who I am.
During the first appointment, patients have a long list of issues they want help with. They want to tackle problems once and for all and start living a happier, more productive and fulfilling life.
They’re tired of repeating destructive patterns, blaming others, having failed relationships, being controlled by their anxiety and depression, and not confronting people and situations and/or fearful of making changes due to lack of confidence.
After a couple of sessions, most patients report that they’re feeling better. This is a crucial stage in therapy. Although patients come to therapy seeking change, once it starts happening, fear often sets in. They start minimizing the problems that brought them to therapy, want to cut back on sessions, and become less invested during therapy.
When I bring this to their attention, they often tell me that despite their quirks and difficulties, they really like who they are and fear therapy will alter their unique qualities. The goal in therapy is not to change who you are but to help you re-discover your own voice – inner self -- to help guide you in the direction you know you need to go – and clear out the obstacles in your way.
Do you offer phone and Skype sessions?
Yes. Phone or Skype sessions are available for patients and couples who live out of state or the country. This service is also available for current patients who are traveling for work or pleasure as well as those who need an immediate session and are unable to get to my office. Skype allows you to have the same therapeutic experience as if we were talking in my office. Skype is a free internet service that is easy to set up. If your computer or laptop does not have a video camera, you can purchase one at a minimal cost.
Can I email you a question?
I often receive requests from people I do not know who want a quick answer to a complicated question. Without knowing anything about your background and without sufficient information regarding why you are asking this question, I would be doing you a disservice in providing a generic answer. You can schedule a consultation so that we have the proper amount of time to address your concern.
If you are a current patient and have a quick follow-up question from our session or want to dash me a note about something you’d like to discuss during our scheduled appointment, I will certainly send you a response. Like phone calls in between sessions, I’ll gladly provide you with an answer but if reading and sending a response requires more than ten minutes, you will be charged for the time.
For questions that do not require my therapeutic skills like if I treat patients with your problem; how to broach the topic of suggesting therapy with your partner, children, or friend; or if I’m available to speak to your organization, you can reach me at 954-346-7066 or email your question.