Treatment
Frequently the below listed conditions are a combination of thoughts, feelings, behaviors and experiences in the body. I routinely help clients resolve these symptoms if not find a way to diminish the role it has in your life by developing a mutual understanding of what it is and self management approach that will work for you. This list is in alphabetical order.
Abuse:
Verbal, emotional, physical, sexual, if you have been the victim of abuse in the past or present it has had a deep impact on you. No one may know this about you, but you or quite the contrary. All types of abuse leave wounds that if left uncared for will only complicate your life further. Take an active role in your healing and prepare to put the shame and memories in their rightful place.
Addictions:
I am not an addictions specialist, however, I have helped many persons struggling with their use of the internet, shopping/spending, pornography, relationships, food, substances…listen, you can become addicted to almost anything. Stop the feelings of shame and embarrassment and let’s find out what is next for you.
Aging:
Another universal experience many struggle with and resist! So many transitions and challenges arise as we age. Whether the conflict is within ourselves (body, mind & spirit), or our loved ones you don’t have to face them alone. Support and guidance can make an enormous difference in navigating these rough waters.
Anger Management:
You feel helpless to the escalation of your feelings that go from hurt to rage before you know it. Uncontrolled anger tends to be a learned response that has become automatic over time. If it is harming your relationships it is time to leave this old habit behind you!
Anxiety, Obsessive-Compulsive, Phobia & Panic:
Bipolar Depression:
http://www.healthyplace.com/Communities/Depression/nimh/bipolar_screening_test.asp
Caregiving:
If you have chosen to be a caregiver, I am guessing you wouldn’t have it any other way. Usually the biggest problem for you is that no one is caring for you including yourself! As long as you are in this role you cannot forget yourself or you won’t be around to care for anyone. You need support and perhaps a connection with others doing what you do.
Depression - Unipolar/Sadness:
Check this link out for self evaluation: http://www.med.nyu.edu/psych/screens/depres.html
Dissociation:
Everyone does this to some degree, but if time passes you cannot account for, you find unfamiliar objects in your possession, or find yourself in unfamiliar places and cannot remember how you got there, I can help you sort this out.
Divorce/Separation:
Coming to this point is a massive life event whether you feel relieved or abandoned, whether you are the dumper or dumpee; it’s big. If you are hesitant about divorce, separation may be an option for you that we can evaluate. No one needs to go through this alone. Our rational brain is often not accessible to us during these stressful life events and most of us need at least one uninvolved rock to lean on. Your lawyer may not be that available!
Grief:
Loss of any kind (loved one, pet, job, financial, home etc.) can turn your world upside down. Yes, time helps. Recovery from most losses, however, require work, finding someone to listen compassionately, and having a trusted guide to help you not get lost in your sorrow. Our society makes grieving complicated because we are supposed to just get over it. This is a myth!
Headaches:
Integrated Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (IEMDR) techniques has proven to be highly effective in eliminating head pain. Whether you suffer from migraines, tension or cluster headaches there is a strong likelihood I can help you. Chronic headache can also be significantly impacted, it may simply take a few more sessions. No medication is involved! Whew!
Parenting:
Whether it is your child (of any age) or your vulnerable, aging parent you are in the role of parent. Most of us do the best we can and work from a loving place, but sometimes that is not enough to handle a challenging situation. I can help you process, problem solve and hopefully empower you so you can feel good again about what you need to do.
Relationships:
We all have them and are in them to some degree. Whether it is a person at work, the family you were raised in, a friend, a partner in life or a child we can always learn to do relationships better. For most of us improvement begins with communication, developing skills to handle conflict, expressing our needs clearly, managing boundaries and knowing when to exit or let go.
Spiritual:
Most of us, at one point in our life, find ourselves asking the deeper questions surrounding the human experience and beyond. What is it to believe, have faith, and to surrender to the moment? What is the difference between religion and spirituality? Can I have both? What do I think of afterlife or past lives? I am neither a cleric nor a guru, but I know these are important conversations to have and I can provide a safe place to explore these buring questions.
Self Esteem:
This is one of the most important, fundamental building blocks for all of us. It is a birthright to be loved and valued. If this was not given to you in your youth, for whatever reason, I can help you discover the path that will lead you to the light inside you and how to cultivate it.
Sexual Identity:
Some might say I am a safe place to be who you need to be. If you are gay, lesbian or bisexual I have familiarity and comfort with who you are as well as an understanding of some of the cultural and relational differences that exist for each of you. If you are a family member of someone who is “out” and need help or support with that experience you are also welcome to explore that here. If you are exploring transgender issues, I have less experience and expertise with your situation, but you are still welcome to explore your concerns with me.
Stress Management:
Let’s face it, most of us are experiencing some level of stress most of the time. A lot is expected of us and we expect a lot of ourselves. Unmanaged stress will create a distressed body and mind. A plan for balance is essential or you will be a direct contributor to the shortening of your lifespan!
Trauma/PTSD:
I have found that my training in EMDR & Thought Field Therapy have thankfully helped many people suffering from the effects of trauma and symptoms of PTSD. I can help you assess if you have PTSD and how to best approach relief for you and healing from your event(s).
Women:
Like it or not, we are different, in the most wonderful way. It begins with our physiology, our social/cultural conditioning, how we see ourselves, how others see us, and our roles (which are changing everyday!). We have more choices than ever and many of us have no idea where to begin. It’s important to remember that even when you feel stuck, something important is happening when you are there. It is like the chrysalis stage of the butterfly. Exploring unfulfilled desires and feelings of stagnation will begin the opening process you have been waiting for. It won’t be long before you have a clearer vision of how to get what you want and where you might begin.
Workplace:
For many of us, work is where we spend the most time. When the work environment becomes more negative than positive, it is important for us to assess why and what, if anything, can be done about that. I was an employee assistance counselor for 9 years and have.