And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom. Anais Nin
For an individual seeking counseling, we have found that often some intensive treatment is helpful initially; especially if a person is dealing with something painful that reminds them of difficult childhood events or trauma. It can feel like you are falling into a hole that continues to grow deeper and deeper.
The first goal of therapy is to develop a clear outline (called a treatment plan), a map that points to where counseling can lead and how to get there. Your first concern may be anxiety, depression, sleeping problems, difficulty focusing, job conflicts. relationship distress or any number of other issues.
But these can be symptoms. We have found that any advice or recommendation, even well-reasoned strategies, and skills, will miss the mark unless the real issues are first clearly identified. We want to help you to get to the real challenge (beyond the surface appearance). This may take some time and effort, and the plan may change as you work.
Meeting at least weekly for a time can allow the healing to really take hold. During this period, we will suggest actions you can take between visits. There is much you can do to heal on your own. We promote positive self-care and growth. This may include suggested readings, videos, practicing meditation, or keeping a writing or art journal. We may suggest some practices to engage your body, ways to promote different emotional states, such as yoga, walking, or some regular physical activity. We may also make recommendations to other enhancement services. We will encourage you to connect to positive people, to identify those who can support your healing.
Our sorrow and wounds are healed only when we touch them with compassion. Buddha
To heal involves engaging your life in a new way, in a multifaceted process. We take pains not to move you faster than you are ready, but we also know healing involves moving beyond your comfort zone. We seek to keep you active but not overwhelmed.
Mindfulness/self-help websites:
