What should I expect in our first session?
You should expect to be listened to attentively, with understanding and without judgment. I believe you are the expert on your own life. I am a guide. I’ve seen a lot of jungles but you will help me to understand yours in the first meeting. Towards the end of our first meeting we will begin to fashion a unique plan to address all your goals.
How do you describe your therapeutic approach?
I believe a new style of therapy or coaching must be fashioned for each new person I meet. That said, my approach is best described as integrating evidenced-based, active, and practical methods such as cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing and sport psychology. I believe that therapy starts with a deep understanding and trust, and I work hard to establish them early and powerfully in my work.
How long have you been practicing?
More than 25 years.
What do you specialize in?
I specialize in the psychology of improvement. I work creatively and collaboratively to assist my clients to create more meaning in their lives, to achieve goals they previously thought impossible, and to find more joy in life.
What’s the most rewarding part of your job?
The most rewarding part of my job is that I’m never bored. I feel that it is a tremendous honor to be invited into the sacred space of helping people improve their lives, suffer less, and reach their full potential. Nearly every session, even the hardest ones, fills me with great meaning and inspiration.
What inspired you to get into counseling?
I’ve always found the most meaning in life in developing relationships with others. I also believe human beings feel most fulfilled when helping others. In my view my career as a psychologist brings me closest to those ideals.
What’s something your clients might be surprised to learn about you?
That I speak fluent Spanish.
What is a self-care ritual you practice?
I have an acronym to remember and keep myself accountable to do my self-care practices daily. It’s called G.E.M.S. Each day I aim to play the guitar, exercise, meditate, and stretch. I also try to practice gratitude daily. I don’t make it every day, but I’m pretty close!