Don Ross

My name is Don Ross; I’ve been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) since 1978. Like many therapists, I got into psychology to recover from a difficult childhood, as well as to help others deal with such issues. I have worked in community mental health, substance abuse treatment, and private practice. I work in the here-and-now, focusing more on clients’ present concerns than their history. I know that empathy promotes healing, so I ask for feedback to be sure my clients feel fully understood. I try to provide resources, tools and skills clients can use between sessions. I also work to help people learn self-compassion (see www.self-compassion.org), since that ability is necessary to heal and grow—and few of us come into therapy already practicing this skill.

My approach

If you’re reading this, you’re likely in crisis, to some extent, or facing major life challenges. I see crisis as a unique opportunity to heal and grow; to change behavior and attitudes that no longer serve us; and to live life in ways that are authentic and are a contribution to others. With each client, I work to create a safe place to be our real, human selves—where both our worst and best qualities will in time be revealed. Mistakes are expected, not just tolerated—and welcomed as opportunities to learn, rather than occasions for blame or shame.

My focus

I am trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples and in Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy. I am also self- educated in Internal Family Systems work. I work only with adults, both in individual and couples therapy.

My communication style

I believe trauma is now the norm rather than the exception, and the good news is that it can be healed in the presence of an accepting, empathic, and genuine companion--which is how I strive to show up for my clients. I believe that effective therapy is a process of mutual growth between equals: a collaborative partnership as opposed to a doctor-patient relationship.