As a Psychotherapist, I utilize mindfulness based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) which focuses on the present moment awareness of how our thinking affects our behaviors as well as the realization that we have a choice. We have direct conscious control over two things -- we can change our thoughts and move our muscles but feelings and sensations need to run their course. In our acceptance of what we can change and what we do not have direct control over gives us the ability to improve our functioning and way of being in the world.
CBT is a form of counseling based on the cognition or way that an individual perceives a situation based on their past beliefs and experiences and how closely connected these thoughts affect our reactions and behaviors, it is our individual perception that affects us rather than the reality of the situation itself and what is actually occurring.
One of the most important role of a Counselor utilizing CBT is to educate Clients in practices to become more aware of their thoughts and provide tools to change their helpful thinking and beliefs to be more accurate, realistic and secure. This leads to changes in behaviors and responses and elevates both mood and functioning as well. Most importantly, seek not to change your symptoms, but rather choose to change your mind about your symptoms.
Beginning a meditation practice can be particularly supportive in your healing. Mindful awareness (often called Mindfulness) of the present moment grounds us in being and keeps us focused on “what is” rather than our judgments, preoccupation with the past, future or rumination– which are simply habitual mind patterns that reinforce our focus on the negative symptoms. Learning to live in the present, practicing changing our thoughts, moving our muscles and allowing feelings and sensations to run their course can be the start of making significant long-term results.
I focus on providing CBT for adults with the following issues:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Relationships
- Self-esteem
- Adjustment
- Behavioral problems
- Anger/Anger Management
- Social anxiety
- Shyness
- Panic attacks
- Phobias
- Performance anxiety
- Career issues
- Grief and loss
- Insomnia or Sleep disturbances
- Motivation
- Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Life transitions