Counseling that works for you

No two people are alike. That’s why Green Door Counseling uses several modes of therapy. Once I get to know you and we have a trusting relationship, we can decide together what type(s) of counseling works best for your situation.

Counseling provides an opportunity for the patient and counselor to work as a team, exploring the nature of the issue that brings the patient to counseling. Because the complexity and intensity of some difficulties are so profoundly affected by other people, we will look closely at the significant relationships in your life. I will respectfully work with you to better understand the roots of your problem, encourage your exploration and growth, challenge unhealthy or destructive patterns of behavior, support necessary change, restore relationships, and empower you toward healthful decision making.

Together, we will determine the course and duration of therapy. The counseling process will require effort during our time together and outside our sessions. You’ll need a commitment to change that may sometimes involve significant discomfort. Remembering and resolving unpleasant events can arouse fear, anger, depression, frustration, and other powerful emotions, which is a normal part of the growth process. Please remember that, at times, a situation can become more difficult before it gets better.

It is important to have a framework of clearly defined rights and responsibilities in the counseling relationship. It is always my intent to provide services in a professional, ethical manner.

Modes of Therapy

Internal Family Systems (IFS)

This practice can help with a variety of stressors such as grief, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and more. It involves looking at each level of consciousness as having sub-personalities, which each play a distinct role in achieving self-preservation. For more information, visit selfleadership.org.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

A type of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), DBT is often used to treat suicidal and self-destructive behaviors, as well as personality disorders and interpersonal conflicts. It helps people live full lives by developing the skills they need, such as mindfulness, emotion regulation, distress tolerance and interpersonal effectiveness. Get more details at behavioraltech.org.

Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR)

This method of psychotherapy helps people heal from the symptoms and emotional distress caused by disturbing life experiences. It helps the mind heal from psychological trauma more quickly, much as the body recovers from physical trauma. Learn more about this type of therapy at emdria.org.

Trauma-informed approach

This approach seeks an awareness of the widespread impact of trauma on life experiences and relationships. The focus is on the client’s sometimes destructive behavior, the reasons for that behavior, and the relief it provides. This method also examines and treats any underlying trauma. 

Confidentiality

Confidentiality is a cornerstone of the therapeutic process. Anything you say in the counseling process will remain confidential. I will not share anything with employers, family, friends or neighbors without your express written permission.

There are only a few exceptions to this policy. If a client is in danger of hurting him or herself or others, I am legally bound to notify someone in order to keep everyone safe. If child or elder abuse is suspected, I am legally mandated to involve child or elder protection authorities to investigate. Confidentiality and its limits are discussed in detail early in therapy.