What does success look like in therapy? How will a client know that they are making progress?
Success can be difficult to measure if you are going to therapy as a couple or family, as sometimes one person views it as beneficial while another does not. As a therapist, I consider a case to be successful when change is happening. I continually ask clients for their assessment of how things are going, what is improving, what else needs to happen. I will point out areas of progress that I see improvement in. The client will know they are making progress because they will be able to see it come alive in their lives and relationships-they will be meeting their therapy goals.
If there was one thing you wish people knew about the therapy experience who might be hesitant to try it, what would that be?
The one thing I wish people knew about the therapy experience who might be hesitant to try it, would be that it actually works! People wait far too long to come in for assistance. While people would never try to fix their own broken leg and don't hesitate to turn to a professional for work on their home, they assume that they can "fix" their relationship problems on their own. A professional might be able to see patterns and interactional cycles that can be broken and increase your satisfaction in those relationships tremendously. You do not need to necessarily be at the point of hopelessness before seeking services: it is a sign of strength to reach out when you are struggling, not one of weakness.
What do you view as a key component of the therapeutic relationship?
There are many essential elements to a successful therapeutic relationship. You, the client, must feel understood and not judged. The therapist should be someone you view as competent, ethical, trustworthy, caring, and professional. If that is not your experience with a new therapist, do not give up on the therapy process altogether, as that person may not be a good fit for you, but there is almost certainly another therapist out there who will be!
Specialties
Divorce & separation
Separation and divorce can trigger a range of mental health challenges, even when the split is mutually agreed upon. Prolonged challenges can lead to stress, anxiety, depression and more.
Family issues
Familial relationships can be the source of stress and emotional pain, even in the healthiest of situations. Painful interactions can range from irritation to resentment and lead to feelings of guilt, disappointment, and anger.
Marriage issues
Issues within a marriage. Can include issues related to trust, intimacy, communication, infidelity, parenting, or conflict. Can also include discussion related to separation or divorce.
General Expertise
Anxiety
Anxiety can mean nervousness, worry, or self-doubt. Anxiety disorder is a mental health disorder that entails excessive, repeated bouts of worry, anxiety, and/or fear.
Careers
Designed to help people choose, change, or leave a career at any stage of life. Careers are often wrapped up in people’s perceived identity, therefore, any change can cause anxiety and/or depression.
Work Stress
Workplace issues are a common source of stress and can include interpersonal conflict, communication problems, gossip, harassment, discrimination, low motivation and job satisfaction, performance issues, and poor job fit.
Relationship Issues
Refers relationship issues with a partner or spouse. Can include issues related to relationship distress, relationship satisfaction, communication, intimacy, etc.
Sexuality Based Issues
Sexuality refers to habits and preferences in terms of sexual behavior, which people express in many ways. Issues in this area may be related to confusion or distress about sexuality or sexual identity.
Fees
$130
First Session
$130
Family Therapy
$130
Couples Therapy
$130
Individual Therapy
Types of Therapy
Family Session
Couples Session
Individual Session
Clientele
Adults (25-65)
Treatment Approaches / Modalities
Strength Based Therapy
Family Systems Therapy
Marriage and Family Therapy
Narrative Therapy
Relational Therapy
Solution-Focused Brief Therapy
Training / Certifications
Graduate Certificate, Medical Family Therapy, Nova Southeastern University
Approved Supervisor, AAMFT
Certified Grief Counselor
Licensure
FL, LMFT, MT2054
Education
Ph.D., Marriage & Family Therapy, Nova Southeastern University
MSW, Social Work, Barry University
B.S., Psychology, Florida Atlantic University
Work History
I earned a degree in psychology, followed by a masters degree in social work, and a Ph.D., in marriage and family therapy. I became licensed as a marriage and family therapist in 2004. Since that time, I have worked in private practice. Additionally, I taught full time as an Associate Professor for 18 years in a graduate counseling program, in addition to serving as the Marriage and Family Therapy Program Director. I currently teach part time online at Capella University. I have clinical experience in a variety of areas and have worked in other clinical contexts, such as Planned Parenthood, community mental health centers, university counseling clinics, etc.
Location
7376 NW 5th St., Plantation, 33317, FL