What is a psychologist?
A psychologist is a trained mental health professional with a doctorate degree (either a Ph.D. or a Psy.D.) in psychology. Unique from other kinds of mental health professionals, psychologists may provide a number of services: Psychotherapy, psychological testing, consultation and supervision. Psychiatrists are medical doctors. They prescribe psychotropic medication and often do therapy as well. Marriage and Family Therapists (MFT) have Masters' Degrees and are primarily trained in therapy for couples and families. Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW) also have Masters' Degrees and may work with individuals and families.
Psychologists vary widely in their approach, style and theoretical orientation. Psychotherapy may be active and direct, passive and reflective, or, most commonly, somewhere in between. Psychologists may be behaviorally-oriented or insight-oriented, or again, some combination. While it is important to choose a psychologist that works in a style that works best for you, research has demonstrated that the most important factors in predicting success of psychotherapy are the length of experience of the therapist and the personal chemistry between therapist and patient.
Psychologists treat a number of problems, most commonly depression, relationship issues, loss, grief and anxiety disorders. In addition to working with these issues I also specialize in alcoholism, pre-alcoholism, addictions, and child custody evaluations.
What kind of psychologist am I?
As a psychologist and psychotherapist my style is interactive, direct and collaborative, drawing upon cognitive and behavioral approaches as well as relational and psychoanalytic (insight-oriented) psychotherapy. My focus is on the specific needs of each patient. My practice is dedicated to helping people live full and meaningful lives. I love what I do and I feel it a privilege to be trusted as a helper.
Coping alone or even with loving friends and family is very difficult if you are going through a loss, conflict or life change. I place my highest priority on providing you with a safe, supportive, objective, warm and confidential environment where I will help you overcome feelings of depression, anxiety and fear, always in the spirit of honoring and respecting your personal dignity and value.
If you think you may have a drug, alcohol, or sex addiction problem, I can help you, without judgment, as part of our "team," to discover and examine your options and to make informed, realistic, healthy and growth-promoting choices. I believe in your capacity to change and I see myself as a facilitator of that change. My goal is to provide you with support, relief, resolution, and the tools you need to prevent relapse.
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