My name is Carol Fox, LMFT and I have been in practice for many years, witnessing the changes in the need and acceptance of therapy as a tool for becoming a better person. Finding self has many paths, so many therapies have been created, but the focus is always the same: finding the self in the lives we live each and every day. My approach to therapy is to find the right path back to the self.
My approach
To find oneself, a good way to start is with a life review, digging up hurtful places to see if there are a few unresolved issues that prevent growth. Focusing on goals and conscious living puts the past in perspective so that goals can be achieved. First, though, we start with the "now", what it is that brought you to seek help. The present path provides direction and a starting place. So, the theoretical approach is exploring the family system as a tool in discovering blocks that may prevent the "self" from becoming the self that was meant to be.
My focus
Life presents many challenges, whether they be trauma or change of circumstances. These challenges are on a spectrum in everyone's life. People who are willing to work on themselves are most receptive to therapy, or the art of exploring. People who show resistance to growth also benefit from discovering the why, the how, and the self.
My communication style
I have been told I have a soothing voice and a welcoming presence. It feels natural to me to let the client lead, to follow, to support, and to delve deep into the hurt or pain that is brought up, only if the client invites. I may ask questions, I may reveal what I notice, but the client must do the work, for only then is therapy useful.
My journey to mental healthcare
My original life plan was to become a school teacher, which I did for a period of eight years. Then, life changed, marriage and children happened, and when I was ready to go back to teaching, the field was glutted and my desire to work with children led me to become a school counselor, which led me to become a licensed therapist, which led me to a private practice for many years. Working with divorcing parents led me to focus on the separation process, which led me to become qualified as a mediator. This led me to work at Family Court Service within the family court system. This led me to specialize in Family Evaluations, as part of the divorce process, developing parenting plans that are in the children's best interest. A full circle of working with children, families, and adults. Experience from many different sides of the diamond.
My goals for you
Goal setting is the heart of therapy and goals may not be set on the first meeting. Only after the "now" is described can the 'how" be determined or the a'when" is agreed upon. Goals are the bloom after the planting and rain has fallen.
My first session with you
A gentle introduction, a sharing of information, answers to questions, and a shared experience will reveal if this relationship will work out for each of us. The initial session is a get to know each other so that we can decide if we wish to work with each other.