Psychotherapy is more of an art than a science. It takes skill, caring, intelligence, common sense, creativity, and something intangible that I often refer to as intuition. I have done countless hours of psychotherapy in my lifetime and have learned how to feel my way through a session. Just as the best athletes develop feel in whatever sport they play, the best therapists use their intuition to guide them to what clients most need each week.
Working with people and making a dramatic difference in their lives is very gratifying. This is why I chose to attend graduate school in psychology and ultimately pursue a doctoral degree. To make a real difference, the therapist must understand the nature of someone’s dilemma. In the final analysis, most people just want to feel good, be happy, and prosper. The reality is that happiness is often something we must learn. Because of past conditioning, many of us feel that success and happiness is unattainable. The REALITY is this is not true. With the right guidance, enough desire, and a certain amount of action the possibilities are practically limitless!
The essence of psychotherapy is change. Gradually, people learn to shift their relationship to themselves and others. Change can take many forms. Sometimes, it can mean giving up self-sabotaging habits like overeating or excessive internet and television use. Other times, psychotherapy can lead to better and greater self-expression. For example, if you are upset at your wife for spending too much, learning how to express yourself gracefully and with understanding is essential. Thus, you may learn that excessive spending is a habit that people exhibit primarily when they are in negative states or otherwise unhappy. The marital relationship may be part of the problem or as is often the case there is a history of anxiety, depression or poor self-esteem. Regardless of the origin, the behavior needs to be addressed before it becomes destructive. However, how one addresses negative habits, limiting beliefs, and poor communication is fundamental to their successful resolution. I teach people how to communicate with themselves and others with grace, ease and awareness.
