Psychotherapy is defined as an intentional interpersonal relationship used by trained psychotherapists to aid a client in problems of living. It aims to increase the individual’s sense of their own well-being. Using a range of techniques based on experiential relationship building, dialogue, communication and behavior change are designed to improve the overall mental health of a client or to improve group relationships (such as in a family).
During the first few meetings, we will begin working on some goals that you want to work on during our sessions. These goals can change and there will be things we can address for you to work on outside of our sessions. Therapy is not a quick fix, it takes some time to learn new ways to cope. I can help you identify areas of your life that you would like to work on, but the change that happens will come from the work you put into it.
Here are some of my areas of interests/specialties and how I can help.
Adjustment to Illness
This could be your illness or the illness of a loved one. It could be a new diagnosis, a chronic diagnosis (such as diabetes) or a life threatening illness (such as cancer). Most illnesses are family centered and it is challenging for everyone involved. Many illnesses continue to be difficult to deal with even after treatment has finished. It is hard for many to cope with survivorship issues such as transitioning back to a “normal” life for everyone involved with your diagnosis.
Grief and Loss
Generally we think of grief and loss issues in relation to losing a loved one. Grief and loss can also be experienced with any life changes, such as a break up in a relationship, miscarriage, changes in relationships or jobs. Every day we experience different types of small losses and they can have an impact on our overall well-being.
Self-care
For many, it comes natural to help others but harder to take care of yourself. Caretakers generally do not focus on how they can balance what they do for others with what they need for themselves. Looking at the systems in which we live and some behavior changes, such as time management, giving yourself permission to be a little selfish can help your overall well-being.
Fertility issues
Thousands of couples find that it is difficult to conceive. There are many factors that can contribute to fertility issues but most are unexplained. Undergoing fertility treatments can cause a huge strain on your relationship with your spouse, family, friends and be very costly. Living in a world where everybody seems to be pregnant or has children can be intimidating and make you feel very isolated.
Anxiety and depression
There are various symptoms of anxiety and depression that many people experience. These symptoms may be mild and give little disruption to your everyday life or so profound that you need to have medication. Regardless of what your symptoms, we can develop tools to help you feel better.