Personal Statement

I am intensely interested in how human beings cope with stressful and extreme circumstances and relationships. I have been impressed with the creativity and resilience with which individuals, couples, and families have found ways to survive abuse and life events beyond their control. As a therapist I try to notice the strengths of those with whom I work and support the growth that is possible in even the worst situations.

I recognize that many come with stressful relationships, painful memories, anxiety, and a sense of powerlessness. Not everything in our lives goes well. Sometimes it takes major effort to go through an ordinary day. There are mental health issues that leave one depleted and struggling to cope and hope. I see my role as attending to these difficulties and supporting the strengths and resources I believe are present in human life and relationship systems.

I work with individuals, couples, and families. I listen for resources within one’s self and one’s relationship system. I try to help people find ways to cope more effectively, develop skills and strategies that make relationships work, and grow through the process. I look for strengths and assets in one’s family of origin, current social support systems, individual’s unique strengths and capacities, as well as the resources of faith and spirituality.