Therapy sessions are designed to specifically meet the individual, couple or family’s needs. It is helpful to keep in mind what you want to accomplish each session. Approaches used are very eclectic and include:
Cognitive behavioral therapy is based on the concept that the way we think influences our feelings and behavior; not external things such as other people, situations, or events. Therefore, if we change our thoughts, we can choose how to respond, to feel and to act better even if the situation does not change.
Mindfulness cognitive therapy focuses on how to be fully present (in the now as opposed to living in the past or future), letting go of judgments and negative assessments of the past.
Marital/Couples Counseling
Whether in a new relationship or in an old one that needs fine tuning, learn skills that will make a difference. Learn the latest techniques that address the needs of 21st century relationships focusing not only on defining the needs of the “new woman,” “the new man” but the relationship as a whole. Learn how to set boundaries, deal with conflict and communicate effectively to have a great relationship.
The following forms are to be used as needed. They can be helpful in evaluating different areas of your marriage or relationship.
We live in an ever-changing vibrant world with many stressors, both good and bad. When many stressors occur at the same time, it is easy to be overwhelmed. In addition, it is the person’s internal dynamics that determine how stressors are dealt with. Treatment focuses on learning stress management techniques that address these issues.
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
PTSD occurs after exposure to a traumatic event resulting in symptoms that just don’t seem to go away and can persist for years. This often results in the person re-living the past over and over again, not allowing the person to live their life in the present. Learning ways to lower anxiety and living in the “now” (being mindful of the present) are strategies to deal with this disorder.
Anxiety
Anxiety is the #1 mental health issue in the United States. It is a stress response to perceived threat or loss and in severe cases can result in panic. Therapy is focused on learning methods to lower anxiety levels and alter internal dynamics to deal with stress. If not treated, anxiety may turn into depression.
Depression
Depression, “the blues,” is a disorder of mood resulting in feelings of negativity towards yourself or the outside world. It is expressed by a loss of energy, inactivity, anger and even thoughts of suicide. Sometimes medication is warranted. Therapy focuses on learning strategies to deal with this emotional pain.
Bi-polar disorders involve both depression (lowering of mood) and mania (exaggerated elevation of mood) that occur in cycles. Therapy focuses on understanding how to identify and manage moods.
Grief
Coping with loss (whether familial, death, or job) usually involves a period of sadness which feels like depression. The resulting practical consequences can be severe. Many people find it difficult to move on. Treatment focuses on coping with the adjustments as well as the opportunity to re-define and embrace life with a new outlook.
Self Esteem Issues
Self esteem is the capacity to recognize one’s worth and value despite human weaknesses and flaws. Therapy focuses on understanding how this important concept influences your life positively or negatively.
Workshops and Events
Groups that focus on specific areas can be a wonderful way to learn and experience personal growth. They are usually 1/1/2 to 2 hour sessions for 6 to 8 weeks and held in the evenings or on the weekend and based on interest. If you have an interest in a specific group, please e-mail Susan Corbett with your name, telephone number and class you are interested in.
Past Topics have included: Meditation, Relationships, Weight Loss, Stress Management, and Insomnia.