What is psychotherapy?

Psychotherapy, also referred to as therapy or counseling, is an effective way to resolve common problems that often impact daily functioning including depression, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, bereavement, and difficult life phases.  Psychotherapy can also address complications in and management of chronic mental illnesses such as severe depression, bi-polar disorder, schizophrenia and obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Psychotherapy is based on experiential relationship building with a trained psychotherapist. Through this relationship and the space therapy provides, the client is able to reflect on and understand behaviors and feelings. The goal is often some degree of personal change or change within a relationship.

People either find themselves seeking therapy because they are poised for change or because they have been confronted with a crisis which often times forces change. Choosing to to put energy and resources towards therapy can be difficult for many people.  If one has moved passed the myth that therapy is “for crazy people” they often comment “therapy is fine for others but it’s not for me”, which can be a form of fear or resistance.  Once a person establishes a productive and positive relationship with a therapist the benefits become evident.

What is Art Therapy?

From The American Art Therapy Association:

“Art therapy is based on the understanding that the creative process of art making is healing and supporting of personal development. Through art making, its observation, and self-reflection under the guidance of an art therapist, one can increase self-awareness, cope with illness, stress, and trauma, enhance cognitive abilities, and enjoy the life-affirming joy of creative endeavors.

Art therapists are professionals trained in both art and therapy and hold a Masters or Ph.D. degree in art therapy or a related field. Art therapists work with children, adolescents, and adults and provide services to individuals, couples, families, groups, and communities.”

How long will it take to solve my problems?

Therapy is a process, which means that there is not established length of time for treatment for all clients.  Some clients find the resolution they seek within months, others opt to stay in therapy for years and many people come in and out of therapy as they meet challenges or to prepare for change.

Although a therapist will offer support, therapy is generally not direct problem solving nor advice giving. But working with a therapist offers the opportunity to help people move through problems and gain insight and perspective.

How long is a session?

Sessions are generally 45-50 minutes and are often held weekly or more frequently depending on the circumstances.  Family sessions are often scheduled longer.

What is your training?

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) and a registered Art Therapist.  Although I mainly work from a psychodynamic perspective, I have an eclectic approach to therapy which includes some narrative therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) elements.

For more information about marriage and family therapy:

California Marriage and Family Therapy Association

Who do you treat?

I have experience working with individuals, couples, families, adolescents and children.

Do you accept insurance?

At this time I do not accept insurance though I can provide you with an invoice for service that you can submit to your insurance for reimbursement.