How does therapy work?
There are many ways to answer this question. One way to think about it is in stages. In the initial stage of therapy, I carefully and attentively listen. A lot. Through empathizing, actively participating, and understanding how it feels to be you in the world, including how you experience our conversations, we will co-create an environment where you will feel secure and comfortable enough to explore issues that may otherwise be difficult to talk about. As we progress, we will delve deeper into these issues, and articulate thoughts and feelings that are often overlooked by others who we care about, as well as by ourselves. Acknowledging these innermost spaces is an essential step towards feeling better.
What is your approach to therapy?
My approach to therapy is strongly influenced by attachment theory and research. We tend to “carry” our past experiences with close others in ways that affect how we interpret, and thus are influenced by current events. Being able to clearly articulate such longitudinal links between past relationships and current difficulties is the core feature of my approach to therapy. Doing so allows for (a) promoting a sense of agency over our lives, which is one of the most significant features of well-being, and (b) fostering close relationships that make us overall more secure and fulfilled and less sad and anxious.
Why does attachment theory guide your therapeutic approach?
My life experiences, extensive theoretical and clinical training, and ongoing research I am leading have taught me that more important than the life problems we are dealing with is whether we have attachment figures we feel secure with—someone(s) whom we can turn to for emotional (and practical) support. Therefore, as a therapist, my role is first and foremost to fulfill your basic need for such an attachment figure.
How is couples therapy different from individual therapy?
Whereas both types of therapies benefit from the same attachment-informed framework, they often differ in the problems addressed. In couples therapy, the focus of therapy tends to be on communication patterns. The working assumption is that communication, especially around sensitive issues (e.g., affairs, pregnancy, parenting), reflects a deeper level of interpersonal sensitivity that each partner developed early in life and consistently manifests in the relationship. Suspending judgment and fostering a secure interpersonal environment allows both partners to “slow down,” identify the often difficult-to-articulate emotional injuries each partner causes the other, and ultimately allow for a more empathic communication.
How long does therapy last?
Therapy varies in length. I have had clients whom I have seen for a few months, and have had others whom I have seen for several years. Length has nothing to do with the severity of the problems or the mental health conditions, but rather with the function that therapy fulfills for each individual or couple.
How frequently will we meet?
Based on my experience, meeting at least once a week for the first few months yields the best and most sustaining results. I am always open to discussing other time intervals that may fit you better.
Do you take insurance?
No, I am an out-of-network provider. However, I will provide you with a receipt that you can submit to your insurance company if you have out-of-network mental health coverage.
Why seeing an out-of-network provider? Read more here.
Why seeing an out-of-network provider? Read more here.