Amy MurphyLCSW

Once the initial assessment is complete I like to talk about what a client is expecting from Therapy and where they would like to see themselves at the end of our process. From there we work on identifying one or more Longterm goals that are personal to the individual. We can then work together on breaking this goal into several smaller goals that are specific, measurable and achievable noting your confidence level in each one and your readiness to change among other things. In doing so we are able to identify a starting point that will be motivational and therefore likely to be successful. If change is what you are looking for, then you are in the right place. My approach will include occasional homework assignments as well.

One thing I have noticed over the past 8 years or so is that there is an underserved population that exists in those who are mostly over the age of 60. This is a generation, many of who experience social isolation either due to their own health issues or because they are caring for a loved on with a chronic health condition. They are often under a great deal of stress which can lead to anxiety and/or depression. I have found that contrary to popular belief this is a population who are open to therapy and able to benefit from it.

An initial session with me will be all about building a rapport and trust while gathering enough information to inform our path moving forward. I will ask different questions about your reason for reaching out, health history, family history and personal history in an effort to gain a complete picture of what may be going on that is impacting your need for therapy. From there we can have a firm foundation to build our process on as we move forward in the Therapeutic process.

• North Carolina, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, C008577