Many of us became a psychotherapist to help support others through life’s challenges. From relationships to family to career, life can be a roller coaster of events. As therapists, we look for negative patterns in thought and behaviors and help you make sense of them in order for you to understand or learn how to change them. We use an array of therapeutic approaches and feel that therapy should be collaborative. Thus, we utilize therapeutic techniques that is appropriate for that specific client. Some approaches that we incorporate are:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
- addresses distorted thinking and maladaptive behaviors
- focuses on solving problems and creating change
- stays in the present, here and now
Psychodynamic Therapy
- addresses how unconscious motives affect behaviors, feelings, and judgments
- focuses on how past childhood experiences greatly influence our adult lives, shaping personality
- learn from your past to change your future
Solution-Focused Therapy
- addresses problems by reviewing previous solutions and evaluating exceptions
- focuses on solutions rather than the problem
- emphasizes the future and creating clear, concise, realistic goals
Person-Centered Therapy
- addresses the importance of the psychological environment
- focuses on understanding (empathic), acceptance (having unconditional positive regard), and genuineness (congruent)
- therapist is to be open, trustworthy, curious, creative, and compassionate
Mindfulness Practices
- addresses awareness of our own selves and acceptance of ourselves
- focuses on being in the moment, being aware of thoughts, feelings, bodily sensations, and surrounding environment
- actively observes thoughts and feelings without judgment
Motivational Interviewing
- addresses ambivalence and facilitates change
- focuses on the motivation to change behaviors
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collaborative conversation to strengthen a person’s motivation and commitment to change
Westport Counseling & Therapy 