Sally G Berkowitz

LPC, LMHC

I conducted a research study to show how the relationships of teachers can affect learning for students with learning disabilities in reading. The results of the study reinforced my belief that positive relationships can aid in learning. The study also showed that relationships of other personnel can also aid in the learning process: the support provided by other personnel in addition to the primary teacher can also benefit the progress of students. This showed me how important all relationships are to academic, work, and interpersonal success. In addition, I incorporate research-based techniques like mindfulness, relaxed breathing, and journaling into my practice.

As a young adult, I discovered that people were comfortable talking to me about challenges they were having. As a young teacher, I could see how the interactions that teachers, students, and parents had with children, and each other, could affect outcomes for students, especially students with special needs. I also noticed how the relationships that colleagues had with students, with one another, and with parents could help or hinder processes for helping students to learn academically and socially. I realized how important and powerful it is to develop and use positive interpersonal skills for emotional well being as well as for academic, career and relationship success.

Success in therapy looks like building a better image, a better version of yourself! Therapeutic progress will mean better relationships with others, improved communication skills, and a deeper understanding of oneself. Success can be determined when the goals that the therapist and clients have set are being achieved, and clients can tell that they have improved. Clients who have successfully learned new skills in therapy will have the confidence to use those skills and apply them to many areas of their lives.