Individual Counseling in Marin and San Francisco
Seeking out therapy is an individual choice. There are many reasons why people come
to therapy. Sometimes it is to deal with long-standing psychological issues, or
problems with anxiety or depression. At other times it is in response to unexpected
changes in one's life such as a divorce, starting a new relationship, a work transition,
building ones family through adoption or numerous other life issues where you will
benefit from having outside support. Some have come to therapy after a breast cancer
diagnosis or diagnosis of another chronic medical disorder. Many of my clients have
sought my advice as a counselor as they pursue their own personal exploration and
growth. Working with me as your therapist can help provide insight, support, and
new strategies for all types of life challenges. Therapy can help address many types
of issues including depression, anxiety, conflict, grief, stress management, body-image
issues, and general life transitions. Therapy is right for anyone who is interested
in getting the most out of their life by taking responsibility, creating greater
self-awareness, and working towards change in their lives.
Everyone goes through challenging situations in life, and while you may have successfully
navigated through other difficulties you've faced, there's nothing wrong with seeking
out extra support when you need it. While some people have never experienced any
type of therapy and may be ambivalent about the process especially when they are
faced with an overwhelming crisis others have used therapy as part of their growth
process and return again and again to therapy just like they do to their family
physician. Many people have self-awareness and realize they need a helping hand,
and that is something to be admired. You are taking responsibility by accepting
where you're at in life and making a commitment to change the situation by seeking
therapy. Therapy provides long-lasting benefits and support, giving you the tools
you need to avoid triggers, re-direct damaging patterns, and overcome whatever challenges
you face.
A number of benefits are available from participating in psychotherapy. As your
therapist I can provide support, problem-solving skills, and enhanced coping strategies
for issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship troubles, parenting concerns,
adoption questions, breast cancer support, unresolved childhood issues, grief, stress
management, body image issues and creative blocks. Many people also find that I
can be a tremendous asset to helping them learn to manage their personal growth, interpersonal
relationships, family concerns, marriage issues, and the hassles of daily life.
I can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem or point you in the direction
of a solution. The benefits you obtain from therapy depend on how well you use the
process and put into practice what you learn. Some of the benefits available from
therapy include:
- Attaining a better understanding of yourself, your goals and values
- Developing skills for improving your relationships
- Finding resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy
- Learning new ways to cope with stress and anxiety
- Managing anger, grief, depression, and other emotional pressures
- Improving communications and listening skills
- Changing old behavior patterns and developing new ones
- Discovering new ways to solve problems in your family or marriage
- Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence
Every therapy session is unique and caters to each individual and their specific
goals. It is standard for therapists to discuss the primary issues and concerns
in your life during therapy sessions. It is common to schedule a series of weekly
sessions, where each session lasts around fifty to sixty minutes. Therapy can be short-term,
focusing on a specific issue, or longer-term, addressing more complex issues or
ongoing personal growth. There may be times when you are asked to take certain actions
outside of the therapy sessions, such as reading a relevant book or keeping records
to track certain behaviors. Therapy is an important process and what has been discussed
can be integrated it into your life between sessions. For therapy to be most effective
you must be an active participant, both during and between the sessions. People
seeking psychotherapy are willing to take responsibility for their actions, work
towards self-change and create greater awareness in their lives. Here are some things
you can expect out of therapy:
- Compassion, respect and understanding
- Perspectives to illuminate persistent patterns and negative feelings
- Real strategies for enacting positive change
- Effective and proven techniques along with practical guidance
In some cases a combination of medication and therapy is the right course of action.
Working with your medical doctor you can determine what's best for you. It has always
been my therapeutic philosophy to give therapy a fair chance to help you resolve
the issues you are facing before seeking medication to comfort your symptoms. Research
shows that personal problems go on for many years before an individual seeks therapy
to resolve their concerns and problems. It is well established that the long-term
solution to mental and emotional problems and the pain they cause cannot be solved
solely by medication. Instead of just treating the symptom, therapy addresses the
cause of our distress and the behavior patterns that curb our progress. You can
best achieve sustainable growth and a greater sense of well-being with an integrative
approach to wellness. However, it is important to state that the decision to treat
your problem with medication is between you and your Medical Doctor. You may have
health circumstances that need medical attention and your doctor will help you determine
this with a full medical exam.
In general, your therapy sessions are confidential. The law protects the confidentiality
of all communications between a client and psychotherapist. No information is disclosed
without prior written permission from you. However, there are some exceptions required
by law to this rule. Exceptions include:
- Suspected child abuse or dependant adult or elder abuse. The therapist is required
to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
- If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person. The therapist
is required to notify the police.
- If a client intends to harm himself or herself. The therapist will make every effort
to work with the individual to ensure their safety. However, if an individual does
not cooperate, additional measures may need to be taken.
I have two convenient locations for you to come to begin your therapy. I have an
office located in
Marin County at 119 Ward Street in old historic downtown Larkspur
and a second location in
San Francisco in the Marina/Cow Hollow district located
at 2182 Greenwich Street the cross Street is Fillmore.
Skype Sessions are available for people who need therapy but are not in the geographic
area to come to my office for face to face therapy. Sometimes clients travel on
business or will be out of town during a schedule session. We are able to keep the
sessions consistent on a weekly basis with Skype services. Skype is a video conference
where we would be able to see one another using our computer webcams. It is possible
to conference in several individuals across the world to discuss important matters
and provide counseling when needed. I serve people who are across America and all
over the World who need the expertise of an experienced therapist to help support
them with their issues and concerns. Skype supports individuals, couples and families.
Skype is often used to help families who live long distances apart resolve conflict
with one another. In our modern times technology can assist individuals, couples
and families resolve problems and work through challenges that would otherwise be
impossible to heal.