A Multi-Faceted Approach to Mental Health Treatment
I believe that there is no singular approach to effective counseling. I incorporate many techniques and theories into my practice to create the most effective approach possible for each client I work with. Below is an outline summarizing many of the therapeutic techniques and theories I gravitate towards as a clinician.
Solution Focused Therapy (SFT)
Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT) is a brief, goal-oriented counseling approach that emphasizes solutions rather than problems. Using this approach, we identify strengths and resources, set clear and achievable goals, and focus on the present and future. SFT fosters a collaborative, client-centered process where clients are seen as experts in their own lives. By emphasizing what works and building on existing successes, SFT aims to empower clients to create practical and sustainable solutions, enhancing their confidence and resilience.
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) combines acceptance and change strategies to help individuals manage intense emotions, improve relationships, and reduce self-destructive behaviors. By balancing acceptance and change, DBT helps clients improve their ability to cope with stress, regulate emotions, and interact effectively with others.
Radically-Open Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (RO-DBT)
Radically Open Dialectical Behavior Therapy (RO-DBT) is a treatment designed for clients experiencing difficulties surrounding excessive self-control, such as anxiety and anorexia nervosa. Its core principles emphasize openness, flexibility, and social connectedness. RO-DBT targets emotional overcontrol, teaching clients to embrace vulnerability and increase emotional expression.
Family Systems Theory (FST)
Family Systems Theory (FST) argues that individuals cannot be fully understood unless they’re also seen in the context of their family unit. Using an FST framework can involve examining family roles, communication patterns, and dynamics to identify dysfunctions. The theory emphasizes the importance of balance and homeostasis within the family. Counseling will focus on improving communication, resolving conflicts, and fostering healthy relationships. By addressing the interactions within the family system, we’ll work towards positive changes, enhance support networks, and promote the well-being of all family members.
Narrative Therapy (NT)
Narrative Therapy (NT) in counseling focuses on the stories people tell about their lives and how these narratives shape their identities and experiences. We’ll work to deconstruct negative stories and reconstruct positive ones, highlighting your strengths and values. This process helps folks gain insight, develop a sense of agency, and create more fulfilling life stories. By reshaping their narratives, you can expect to achieve personal growth, improved self-concept, and greater resilience.
Health at Every Size (HAES)
The Health at Every Size (HAES) movement promotes a holistic approach to health, emphasizing body diversity, self-acceptance, and well-being over weight loss. At its core, rejecting the notion that thinness equates to health, challenges weight stigma, and advocates for equitable access to healthcare. HAES encourages intuitive eating, where individuals listen to their hunger and fullness cues, and use physical activity for enjoyment rather than weight control. It supports mental and physical health by fostering a positive body image and sustainable habits.
Attachment-Based Theory (AT)
Attachment Theory (AT) in counseling emphasizes the importance of early relationships in shaping an individual's emotional and social development. Key principles include exploring clients' attachment styles, understanding how these impact current relationships, and addressing attachment-related issues. Counseling aims to create a secure therapeutic relationship, helping clients develop healthier attachment patterns, improve self-esteem, and improve their capacity for intimacy and trust in relationships.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a fairly structured and goal-oriented type of counseling that focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. CBT involves psycho-education surrounding distorted thinking and emphasizes problem-solving and skills training. By changing maladaptive thinking and behaviors, CBT supports emotional regulation and encourages the development of healthier mental frameworks.