How do you know that it’s time to seek out counseling?

• Do you often feel isolated and have no one to turn to?
• Do you often feel angry about circumstances in your life?
• Do you feel bouts of depression that come and go?
• Do you tend to say "yes" when you really mean "no"?
• Do you tend to feel less satisfaction in everyday activities?
• Do you often find it difficult to relate to others in relationships?
• Are you dealing with a difficult transition in your life?
• Do you have insomnia, body aches, and pains that do not go away?

If you have answered "Yes" to any of these questions, then it could be the time to seek out counseling and therapy. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with over 7 years of experience. I am passionate about helping people reach their goals and find deeper meaning in their life. In counseling, I help you find your own answers and that can only be done when you are patient with yourself and give yourself time to explore the situation. I often help patients discover a range of options that they did not realize they had in figuring out a problem.

My theoretical orientation has been psychodynamic and I often look at a patient’s history to understand a patient more deeply. Therapy and counseling helps individuals uncover what is unconscious to the heart and mind. I work collaboratively with the patient to find out what is best for each person.

I encourage my clients to be honest in their relationship with me and discuss what does not work for him/her. I believe in the client’s ability to heal in a non-judgmental environment in which someone is treated with empathy and positive regard.

How do you choose the right therapist?

"I met with someone that says that he or she can help me, but I am not sure. I didn’t feel a connection and I am not sure whether this therapist can help."

The therapeutic relationship is very important in making a choice to start therapy. Since therapy involves exposing yourself and being vulnerable, it is important that there is a good fit between the therapist and patient. During your initial consultation with a new therapist, if you notice feelings of uncertainty or uneasiness, then it is important to trust your feelings... We often do not trust our intuition, however it is the deepest indication of what is right for ourselves.

Things to consider when choosing a therapist:

• Do you feel like you can open up?
• Is the therapist open to feedback?
• Do you feel cared for and safe during your sessions?
• Does the therapist’s clinical training and techniques support your needs?

The first three sessions offer a trial period for both the client and the therapist. It is a chance for the patient to see how the therapist suits his/her needs, and for the therapist to evaluate whether he/she can support that client effectively.

What are some of issues that I work with?

• Depression
• Family and personal relationships (Spouse, parents, in-laws, children)
• Eating Disorders
• Adjustment/Transition Issues
• Infertility
• Career Problems
• Anxiety
• Phobias
• Trauma
• Childhood Abuse
• Low Self-Esteem
• Women’s Issues
• Cultural Diversity Issues
• Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transsexual Issues

A lotus
Symbolizes the process of human growth, suffering, and learning
It starts as a small flower down at the bottom of a pond in the mud
Slowly, it grows up towards the water surface and moves towards the light.
Once it comes to the surface of the water, the lotus flower begins to blossom and turn into the most spectacular flower.
A lotus is an awakening, a growth that involves overcoming tremendous obstacles.
It is finding your wisdom and being true to yourself.