Mental Health Counseling in Connecticut

Therapy based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness Practice

Individual therapy sessions provide a safe, supportive, and confidential space for clients to explore their personal challenges, gain insights, and work towards meaningful change. With a compassionate and client-centered approach, I help individuals navigate a wide range of issues, from anxiety and depression to relationship concerns and personal growth.

The Initial Assessment

The individual therapy process with me begins with an initial assessment, where I take the time to understand your unique background, current struggles, and therapeutic goals. This first session is an opportunity for you to share what brings you to therapy and to start building a trusting relationship with me. During this assessment, I may ask about your personal history, significant life events, and any patterns or behaviors that you’ve noticed in your life.

This session also allows me to gain a comprehensive understanding of your emotional, psychological, and physical well-being. I may explore factors such as your mental health history, family dynamics, work life, and social connections to better understand how various aspects of your life intersect and impact your current challenges.

A Customized Therapeutic Approach

I believe that therapy should be tailored to your specific needs and circumstances. I integrate a variety of therapeutic models and techniques to create a personalized approach that best suits you. Some of the key approaches I may use include:

  • Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): I often use CBT to help you identify and change negative thought patterns that contribute to feelings of anxiety, depression, or other emotional difficulties. Through CBT, you’ll learn to challenge unhelpful beliefs, develop healthier thinking patterns, and build coping strategies to manage stress and emotional challenges.

  • Psychodynamic Therapy: If you’re interested in exploring deeper emotional issues or understanding how past experiences influence your present behavior, I may use psychodynamic therapy. This approach involves examining unconscious processes and unresolved conflicts from the past that may be affecting your current life. I help you gain insight into these patterns and work through them to create lasting change.

  • Mindfulness-Based Therapy: I often incorporate mindfulness techniques to help you stay grounded in the present moment and manage overwhelming emotions. Through mindfulness practices, you’ll learn to observe your thoughts and feelings without judgment, reducing stress and increasing emotional resilience. This approach is particularly helpful for managing anxiety, depression, and stress-related issues.

  • Humanistic Therapy: My approach is deeply rooted in humanistic principles, focusing on you as a whole person and emphasizing personal growth, self-acceptance, and authenticity. I help you connect with your true self, explore your values and aspirations, and work towards achieving your full potential. This approach fosters a sense of empowerment and encourages you to take an active role in your healing process.

  • Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT): If you’re looking to achieve specific goals or make changes in a shorter period, I may use SFBT. This approach is action-oriented and focuses on identifying solutions rather than dwelling on problems. I help you set clear, achievable goals and develop practical steps to reach them, emphasizing your strengths and resources throughout the process.

  • Trauma-Informed Therapy: If you’ve experienced trauma, I provide a trauma-informed approach that prioritizes safety, trust, and empowerment. I help you process and heal from traumatic experiences in a way that feels safe and manageable, using techniques that address the impact of trauma on your body, mind, and emotions.

The Therapy Process

My individual therapy sessions are designed to be a collaborative process, where you play an active role in your healing journey. The therapy process typically includes the following steps:

  • Building Rapport: In the early sessions, I focus on establishing a strong therapeutic relationship built on trust, respect, and empathy. I create a non-judgmental space where you feel comfortable sharing your thoughts, feelings, and experiences.

  • Goal Setting: Together, we will define your therapeutic goals. Whether you’re seeking relief from anxiety, working through a difficult life transition, or striving for personal growth, I help you clarify what you want to achieve through therapy. These goals provide direction and focus for our sessions.

  • Exploration and Insight: As therapy progresses, I guide you in exploring the underlying causes of your challenges. This may involve examining past experiences, identifying patterns in your thoughts and behaviors, and gaining insight into your emotions. I help you understand the connections between different aspects of your life and how they influence your current situation.

  • Skill Building and Coping Strategies: I teach practical skills and coping strategies that you can use in your daily life to manage stress, improve your emotional well-being, and achieve your goals. This may include techniques for managing anxiety, improving communication, enhancing self-care, and building resilience.

  • Ongoing Support and Adjustment: Throughout your therapy journey, I provide ongoing support and adjust the therapeutic approach as needed to ensure it aligns with your evolving needs. I regularly check in on your progress, discuss any challenges you’re facing, and help you stay on track toward your goals.

  • Ending Therapy: When we agree that you’ve achieved your goals and feel ready to conclude therapy, I will help you prepare for this transition. We may review the progress you’ve made, discuss strategies for maintaining your well-being, and ensure you feel confident moving forward on your own.

What to Expect in a Session

Each individual therapy session with me is an opportunity for you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a supportive environment. Sessions typically last 50 to 60 minutes and are held weekly, although the frequency can be adjusted based on your needs and goals.

I encourage open dialogue and self-reflection, guiding you through the process of understanding yourself better and making positive changes in your life. I offer a balance of active listening, thoughtful questioning, and practical guidance to help you achieve meaningful and lasting results.