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Approach
My practice is focused on helping people attain and
sustain balance, no matter what one’s circumstances. Whether a client is challenged by health, anxiety, loss, trauma,
depression, relationship conflict, or simply a feeling of stagnation, learning to place more equal attention on all the different
aspects of oneself and one’s life provides the foundation needed to move through every situation more successfully.
A Question of Balance
What is balance
and how do I attain that? Balance can be seen as meeting life circumstances with consistent inner stability, integrity, a
sense of calm, and confidence. It can feel very difficult to attain--perhaps impossible. Yet I believe anything is
possible; often, what it takes is shifting our perceptions and long-held beliefs to see through new eyes. "Negative"
experiences become challenges, and even the past becomes a welcome teacher. When we learn to view our experiences differently, maintaining a
sense of calm and confidence becomes increasingly easier. When we feel more balanced, we have more energy to give to our loved
ones and the world at large. Balance is our key for growth and vitality.
Concrete Tools
and Strategy
After the primary areas to address are agreed on, the work includes
concrete exercises and practice techniques designed to increase balance and forward movement toward set goals. By encouraging
individuals to embrace each aspect of themselves equally (intellect, emotional self, physical body, and spirit), I help access
strengths already within. This
more holistic, strategic approach helps clarify goals, set intentions, pin-point obstacles, and helps people move through
them. When we are able to define exactly where we want to go—and have the right tools to get there—we can move
confidently toward our desires more in synch with our unique nature.
Limitations of traditional counseling
Upon receiving my graduate degree, “Master Social Worker,” my practice was initially very traditional. However,
I believe that most counseling available today is not strategic enough to break the patterns that bind us. Telling our stories
again and again places our full attention on “the problem." If continued, this cycle can lead us to dwell on our
negativity, sense of lack, sadness, fears or doubts--often attracting more of the same.
Instead, the
use of a straight-forward Client/Counselor exchange, and strategic, concrete tools help make it possible for us to shift from
viewing a situation as a problem or “lack,” to emphasizing what abundance we all already possess—and explore
what desires are left to fulfill. My private and group work can include shared discussion, written and verbal exercises, role-play, guided visualization,
and home assignments to maintain progress. If desired, spiritual exploration and other methods are also used. Within the
session, clients work actively to actually practice more empowering thoughts and behaviors. After several sessions, it becomes
more natural and easy to integrate these new ideas and actions into the world outside.
Confidentiality
Confidentiality is an essential part of any therapeutic relationship; it’s something I take very
seriously. A session(s) with me is an opportunity to express oneself freely and explore new ideas and behaviors with my full
acceptance. I will not discuss a client’s circumstances with any other party. (The only exception concerns matters
of legality; i.e., suspected abuse, or intent to harm oneself or others. I will inform the client if I feel this exception
applies.)
Fees & Insurance
My standard fee
is $80. However, I do offer a sliding scale, and will work to find a monetary arrangement that works for you. I do not take
any form of insurance; I have always found it possible to serve clients regardless of financial restrictions.
Education & Professional Background
After graduating from Ohio Wesleyan
in 1981 with a BA in English and Journalism, I spent 11 years in corporate business. Desiring work more in synch with my
nature, I then joined a team of social workers serving the Boston projects as a Social Worker’s Assistant. Shortly thereafter,
I applied to graduate school. As part of my studies, I held two internships: one at an out-patient mental health center, and
the other at Mass General Hospital in Hematology/Oncology and Intensive Care--both maturing experiences.
After
receiving my degree in 1995 from Simmons College, Boston, I moved to Colorado and worked with at-risk youth in a residential
setting. Next, I furthered my interest in the dynamic relationship between the physical body and the emotions studying anatomy
and physical movement. For five years, I enjoyed my own business as a Pilates Instructor offering fitness, light rehabilitation,
and therapeutic massage, and returned to a private counseling practice in 2002.
Now, through counseling, workshops
and relaxation/fitness retreats, I combine my diverse background and true passions to help others affirm their desires, overcome
obstacles, and genuinely live life to the fullest. I have held a social work license in Massachusetts, and am now licensed
by the State of Maine. For further information or to set up an appointment, please call 323-8062.
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