Teen Counseling
Life with teens. One day they are charming, kind and nice. The next day, they want nothing to do with us. We are annoying, and all they want is for us to get out of their room. I’m the parent of a teenager, and I know this doesn’t feel good. But it’s what we signed up for.
Much of the time, they are ok. They’re just surly adolescents, doing what they do. And we just need to ride it out. But other times, something more is going on. We need to pay attention. We hope it goes away, but sometimes we parents need help. And this is where I come in.
When we parents tell our kids we want them to see someone, occasionally they’re thrilled. But most of the time they’ll push back. Rest assured. That’s normal. Once they get into my office they’re generally ok. What I hear over and over is, “I just need someone to talk to.” They also say, “You’re like my parent, but I can talk to you.” Trust me. I’ll probably say a lot of the same things you say. They’ll just hear it from me. Reach out to learn more.
Couples Counseling
Even when couples are happy and healthy, they have their ups and downs. Believe me. I know. I’ve been married to my wife for almost 25 years. (Where did the years go?) Perfect world, we face challenges and we work through them in a peaceful way. Other times, it’s hard. But with an intentional effort, things get back on track.
But sometimes this doesn’t happen. And it takes a third party. When people call me, the most common things I hear are, “We can’t solve problems on our own.” “We don’t listen to each other.” “All we do is yell.” “I don’t like how he talks to the kids.” “I don’t like how she talks to the kids.” AND, “We never have sex.”
Life is busy. And I know that sometimes marriages go to the back of the back burner. When you notice that this is happening, it’s time to focus on you. I’m happy to join in. I am not the therapist who will sit back and keep quiet. After all, you can do that at home for free. Is it time? Reach out.
Individual Counseling
People come in because something in their life isn’t working well and they’re struggling. And right now, the list of things you might be struggling with is long. You are struggling managing it all: work, spouse, kids, etc. Where is the time for you? Your friends all have spouses and you feel alone. On-line dating sucks. You’re lonely and depression and anxiety are closing in. Is it time to talk to someone to get things out and find strategies? Reach out.
Remote Sessions
When the Pandemic was at its worst, we all learned about the wonderful world of working and going to school by video. Even though most people are back in-person, some people still prefer video sessions. The convenience is appealing. You don’t have to spend so much time driving to an office. You can stay in your sweats (or PJ’s!) Other people have struggled finding a therapist they like near to where they live. Remote therapy has increased options. As long as you live in California, we can meet by Zoom, FaceTime or phone. It’s not for everyone, but most people do fine or even prefer it. Contact me for more information.
Outdoor Sessions
When COVID was at its worst, people were stuck in their house and got good at Zoom and FaceTime.But they were starved for in-person interactions. And then I learned about outdoor sessions. People did walking sessions (Walk-and-Talk) and meetings at the park. There is something about the outdoors that was and is preferred. Contact me for more information.
Don’t See Your Issue Listed?
I help people with a variety of other issues. If you don’t see something listed, Contact me to discuss your situation.
Practice Specialties Include
Depression • Parenting • Anxiety • Personal Growth • Relationship Issues
Adolescents • Academic Concerns • Young Adults • Communication Difficulties Grief/Loss • Life Transitions Men’s Issues • Women’s Issues •
Self-Esteem • Stress Management • Siblings of Special Needs Children • Left-Handers • Infertility Issues