Hi, I'm Brian. I'm a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) who believes in drawing from several various forms of therapy, including CBT, DBT, and solution-focused. I don't believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. I look forward to exploring areas of growth and improvement in our sessions.
My approach
The approach used will be tailored to the obstacles the client presents with. Concurrently, methods will not feel extreme or foreign but will be evidence-based and flow naturally. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) works well for many issues, including anxiety and depression, and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) is a branch of this. These focus on internal thinking and acceptance of self. Alternatively, a client may have a more present goal less entangled with their past, such as struggling at work or not utilizing healthy daily living habits. Solution-focused therapy can be great at identifying and overcoming obstacles without delving deep into past behavior.
My focus
I typically work best with adolescents and adults. I have a broad range of experience in various settings, including emergency care and outpatient therapy.
My communication style
A main question I ask clients in the first session is the type of therapist they're seeking for sessions. Are they looking for someone more collaborative who gives feedback, or one who is more of a listener and less talkative? Or maybe someone in the middle? My main goal is for you to feel safe in our sessions so that you're able to explore your feelings and struggles. This will lead to the best growth. I'm flexible with my communication style to best fit the client's needs.
My journey to mental healthcare
I've always enjoyed working with and helping others. My strengths growing up have been with communication and creativity, and less in math and sciences. Therefore, I gravitated toward psychology and social work as areas of focus. I enjoy therapy, and believe it's valuable for everyone to experience, including therapists! Helping others and seeing their growth is a huge area of happiness for me.
My goals for you
Goals can change throughout the therapy process, especially as successes are accomplished and new directions are set. I tend to set firm goals with clients in the first couple sessions as to establish a platform to build from. Clients tend to come to therapy having an idea of what they'd like to work on.
My first session with you
The first several sessions are about rapport building and learning your story. I'd like to discover what areas you want to grow in, obstacles you're experiencing, and valuable coping skills that you incorporate. The main focus is getting to know you.