Life is complex. We could all use a little help sometimes.
Individual counseling can be used to address a variety of issues including relationship struggles, family functioning issues, trauma, academic issues, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, and more.
What you can expect
Individual counseling always begins with an intake session, which is a 60 minute meeting where symptoms are discussed and a treatment plan is formed. Counseling sessions typically last 45-55 minutes but this can vary depending on the type of service provided. The first few sessions will be spent getting to know each other and planning out what you want to accomplish in therapy.
I practice mainly from a person-centered style of therapy which is all about uncovering the strengths that we all carry inside us. I also incorporate the science behind mental health, as I think it’s really important that we understand how our neurophysiology is affected by stress and trauma. This includes working on stress management and distress tolerance skills that are based in physiology, because your brain is a part of your body and you can’t have a calm mind without a calm body. I will also emphasize the benefits of nutrition and physical activity which are proven to be mandatory for good mental health and work with you to create a realistic and achievable plan.
While I can’t prescribe medication, I’m happy to refer you to those who do and I will work alongside you and your prescriber to help in managing your medications. I strongly oppose the idea that there is a “magic pill” that can cure anything or that anxiety/depression/etc. are the result of a simple chemical imbalance; however, research shows that medications in conjunction with therapy can increase the benefits of both.
Please know that I don’t expect anyone to come into therapy with a solid plan for the type of therapy that they want or exact goals for treatment. We will work together to create a plan that is based on your strengths and addresses any areas that could use shoring up. I especially enjoy working with those that are new to therapy!
“All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.”- J.R.R. Tolkien
foothillsvistacounseling.com 