While I work with clients on a variety of challenges and issues, my clients tend to fall in one of the following groups:
High-Performing business professionals
I work with high-performing business professionals who find themselves faced with a significant personal challenge. The pressure created by the intense nature of their work, the schedule and time constraints, and even how the language of the industry influences the way they think about solving problems can make recovery more difficult than it needs to be. As a former senior executive in the pharmaceutical industry, who became a counselor after a successful business career, I have a unique understanding of the trials and demands faced by top executives.
Clients in their first year of recovery from substance abuse
In the early stages of recovery from alcoholism, substance abuse, and other addictions, clients are faced with getting their lives back on track while dealing the expectations of others and a flood of emotions that were previously suppressed by their addictions. To help these clients identify their emotions and understand how to appropriately channel their emotional energy, I coach them in emotional regulation and the skills required for effective interpersonal relationships. My work in this area is informed by my personal recovery from addiction over the last 35 years.
Young Adults struggling with the transition to adulthood
Many young adults struggle with the transition to adulthood. These clients may have dropped out of college or may have a bachelor degree, yet be without a job and back living with their parents. Young adults in this situation often experience diminished self-esteem and poor emotional self-regulation. They often have a poor work ethic, lack motivation, and have difficulty taking responsibility for their own lives. Many also struggle with issues caused by alcohol and other substances. I help these young adults identify areas of interest that can develop into fulfilling careers, and I coach them in emotional regulation and the skills required for effective interpersonal relationships.
Adult Clients with anxiety and depression
Anxiety disorders and depression are very common. U.S. government surveys show that, among adults over 18 over, 31 percent will meet the criteria for an anxiety disorder, and 21 percent will experience a major depression in their life. Depression and anxiety disorders can severely impair a client’s ability to carry out life activities, such as job performance, school work, and relationships. I help these clients identify the thoughts and ruminations behind their emotions; develop the skills for debunking negative perceptions; and create plans for dealing with difficult situations.
How I work
After building a therapeutic rapport with my clients so that they feel safe and understood, I help them navigate their emotions in a healthy manner, identify their values, and prioritize and maintain their commitments. I take the approach most suited to each client’s needs but am a strong believer in the value of mindfulness and helping clients to develop a better understanding of their emotions and thoughts.
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) skills training to help clients work through negative self-talk and ruminations.
I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), which is especially effective for clients suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
For those clients in need of and open to using medication, I work with and refer clients to experienced psychiatrists and Advanced Practice Registered Nurses in the area.