Therapy Approaches
IFS
Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS) is an approach to therapy developed by Richard Schwartz, Ph.D, that views each person as consisting of multiple “parts.” Each of us contains different and sometimes conflicting aspects that may manifest as mental voices, feelings or personality states. IFS also sees each person as having a “Self,” a harmonizing core, that when present, allows the “parts” to function optimally, without debilitating conflict. Most of us, due to difficult experiences in our lives, have vulnerable parts that are hidden and defended by protector parts. Depending on the level of hurt or trauma, these protector parts can be more or less extreme. For example, parts may influence us to engage in behaviors (such as drinking, drug use, social avoidance, worrying, etc.) that may keep us from feeling vulnerability in the short term but may be problematic or damaging in other ways. IFS therapy works by helping clients access Self, so that they can more easily get to know and work with vulnerable and protector parts, and bring their internal system into greater harmony. This approach is compatible with mindfulness, which provides tools for accessing Self energy. I am a Certified Internal Family Systems Therapist.
IFIO
IFIO (Intimacy From the Inside Out) is a form of IFS that therapist Toni Herbine-Blank specifically developed for working with couples. This approach helps couples identify recurring dynamics in their relationship, and to help them understand the parts of themselves that contribute. The members of the couple are then encouraged to speak for the feelings and needs of these parts, to help bring understanding and more connection to the relationship. I've participated in advanced training with Toni Herbine-Blank in IFIO.
Mindfulness
Mindfulness is a practice that originated in ancient spiritual traditions. It is most often associated with Buddhism but can be found in many other religions, including Christianity, Hinduism and Islam. I learned and practiced Vipassana, a Buddhist mindfulness practice, for many years. The basis of the practice is to use sensory experience to ground one’s awareness in the present moment, regardless of whether the experience is pleasant, unpleasant or neutral. This present-moment attention reduces the anxiety and stress fueled by discursive thinking (worrying, planning, etc.) and can facilitate deep acceptance and contentment with life as it is. This mindfulness practice was developed into a secular stress reduction program by Jon Kabat-Zinn, Ph.D. Kabat-Zinn's program, which he called Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, teaches participants to use meditative practices, such as breathing and body-awareness, as well as attention to daily activities. I trained with the MBSR program at the Center for Mindfulness at the UMass Medical center in 2002. I often use aspects of the approach to help my clients reduce stress and anxiety. I also feel that my own practice of mindfulness, as well as a Tibetan non-dual practice called Dzogchen, is integral to my ability to be present and open for my clients.
Narrative Therapy
Narrative Therapy is interested in the stories we tell about ourselves and how these narratives enrich or impoverish our sense of ourselves. Such beliefs are often problematically influenced by dominant social narratives (for example, the barrage of messages that we have to buy certain things to be happy, or particular depictions of relationships and sex). Narrative therapy works by helping people access and express their own creative, unique and empowering stories, which allow them to find their deepest values and potentials.
FAQs
HOW LONG AND HOW MANY TIMES A WEEK IS A TYPICAL SESSION?
Sessions are 50 minutes. Most clients are seen once a week in the beginning, but it is sometimes helpful to meet twice weekly. Clients who are feeling better may benefit from meeting every other week for a limited period. The number of sessions depends on your current needs.
HOW LONG WILL I BE IN THERAPY?
The length of time a client is in therapy depends on the nature of the problem and goals. Some clients have a very specific problem that can be worked through in a set course of therapy. For others, therapy is an on going learning process, and they choose to attend for a longer period.
HOW MUCH ARE YOUR FEES AND DO YOU TAKE INSURANCE?
The fee for a 50-minute session is $200. Insurances with out-of-network benefits may reimburse a portion of the fee. Please ask if you are unsure about whether you can use your insurance or your ability to pay. Payment can be made with credit cards (Visa and Mastercard), checks or cash.
WHAT IF I NEED TO TAKE MEDICATION?
Social workers cannot prescribe medications. However, some clients benefit from taking medication to facilitate the healing process. If we determine medication could help, you will be given a referral to a prescriber, such as a psychiatrist or nurse practitioner.
