How Therapy Works
The Goal of Therapy
There are two main schools of thought about the goal of therapy. One way focuses on problem(s), identifying symptoms and finding ways to reduce them. Another way to look at it is through personal growth, identifying the life you want to live then determining what steps you need to take in order to make progress toward that life.
If you read What I Offer, you might think I’m more in the personal growth camp. In an ideal situation, I am. But therapy is all about less-than-ideal situations. I’ve worked with some clients who, for a variety of reasons, can’t imagine what a better future state might look like. Some clients are so overwhelmed by the problem that it’s tough to see anything else.
So while I lean toward growth-oriented therapy, I might switch it up depending on the client and what’s going on at the moment. One day, problem-oriented might be the best option. Two weeks later, the same client might be in a better place to do growth-oriented work.
My Role as Therapist
I’m not a fan of top-down therapy where I’m telling you what you should do. You could make a strong argument that some clients need more direction depending on their reason for seeking therapy. But that’s not how I want to work on a regular basis.
I prefer to work along side you using a team approach, both of us contributing our skills and expertise to help you live the life you want to live. I have education and experience in counseling. You have the experience of having lived your life and the life skills you’ve picked up along the way.
Your Role as Client
I’ve written elsewhere about my belief that every client is unique and that therapy should be tailored to each individual. I see this as a sign of respect and the only way to avoid taking the, “if all you have is a hammer, everything looks like a nail” approach to therapy.
I also believe that every client has significant strengths, many of which clients dismiss or are not aware of. Yes - that means you. An important part of how I work is helping you to see those strengths for what they are and helping you to believe in them over time.
I ultimately see your role as client to bring your strengths and experiences to each session so we can work together. You’re not a passenger on this ride. You’re in the driver’s seat and I’m the navigator. You’re the one doing the driving while I help you make informed choices about which way to turn.
