About

I have a Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Michigan (Ann Arbor). I have been a practicing Social Worker since 1973. and have worked in various fields over the years; Welfare, Substance Abuse, Clinical settings, and even in prisons. I have developed clinical programs, have been a fund raiser and a Community Liaison. Over the past 8 years, I have been in Private Practice. I live in the Greater Grand Rapids area where I have resided since 1984.
My approach to therapy is based on Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy, REBT. Our actions and feelings are based on our thoughts about ourselves and situations. As an example, people don't make us angry or sad or hurt. We make ourselves feel this way because of what we are thinking about the situation. I work with people's thoughts and help them identify negative thoughts. These negative thoughts can be challenged and changed. This is effective in reducing anxiety, depression, and fear. It is a very interactive approach and one that produces results. I also use humor as a therapy technique. If we cannot laugh at situations or even ourselves, then we are overcome by sadness and depression.
These techniques are suitable for many different issues and problems. They are designed to be short term treatments. The usual length of therapy is 3 to 12 months. Rarely does therapy go beyond a year.
I prefer to talk clients via telephone or televideo. These are, in my opinion, more effective than email responses. I will do email, but I would prefer not to do therapy this way. Just thought you should know.
My sessions are sometimes serious and sometimes fun. I look forward to working with you.