Do you see adults?
Yes, most definitely. I see adults, children and teens.
What is adoption-competent therapy?
Adoption-competent therapy is a specialty within psychotherapy that addresses the unique issues inherent within adoption and mental health. These may range from adoption lifespan development inter-generationally, trauma impacts, attachment understanding, search and reunion, complex grief and loss, transracial/transcultural issues, infertility, abandonment, adoption-bias, forms of placement, legal knowledge related to child welfare laws, and how these intersect within family systems, individually, and societally.
Do you provide attachment therapy?
I am formally trained in attachment dynamics, research, and clinical application; however, I will not provide what was traditionally coined as “attachment therapy” which included, but is not limited to forced holding, re-birthing, or fear-based/coercive interventions to “make” any adult or child “attach.” Re-birthing and forced holding therapies/techniques are illegal in the state of Texas.
Attachment is fluid and dynamic. It is a biological response to seek safety, security, and regulation between two people–and is inherent in all of us. We are all wired to connect to another. Attachment is not “reactive,” but fundamentally responsive in relationship. Many life events may impact the ways in which we express attachment patterns. It is not the child’s responsibility to attach to the parent, but a bi-directional process between two people. In our work together, we will sensitively examine and address this process in relationship by exploring past childhood events, possible trauma, behaviors, and current relationships.
I’ve never talked to anyone. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to therapy weak?
Not at all. People who ask for help know when they need it and have the ability to reach out. Everyone needs help now and then. You already have some strengths that you’ve used before, that for whatever reason isn’t working right now. Perhaps this problem feels overwhelming and is making it difficult to access your past strengths. In our work together, I’ll help you identify what those strengths are and how to implement them again in what is happening now.
What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?
The difference is between someone who can do something, and someone who has the training and experience to do that same thing professionally. A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Furthermore, therapy is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing my business.” Lastly, if your situation provokes a great deal of negative emotion, if you’ve been confiding in a friend or family member, there is the risk that once you are feeling better you could start avoiding that person so you aren’t reminded of this difficult time in your life.
Why shouldn’t I just take medication?
Medication alone cannot solve all issues. What medication does is treat the symptoms. Our work together is designed to explore the root of the issue, dig deep into your behavior and teach strategies that can help you accomplish your personal and/or relational goals. It is important to note that I am not a medical doctor, and will refer you to a medical doctor should medication be discussed. There may be instances in which medication management will be important in the healing process to regulate.
Medication can be effective and is sometimes needed in conjunction with therapy.
How does it work? What do I have to do in sessions?
Because each person has different issues and goals for therapy, therapy will be different depending on the individual. I tailor my therapeutic approach to your specific needs
How long will it take?
Unfortunately, this is not possible to say in a general FAQs page. Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them and the length of time therapy can take to allow you to accomplish your goals depends on your desire for personal development, your commitment, and the factors that are driving you to seek therapy in the first place.
I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?
When families seek counseling for their child and/or teen, it is vitally important that they are actively involved with the process. Therapy is an entire system approach. When one part changes, the whole system is impacted.
Parents seeking counseling for their adult child (18+ years and older) must consult with their adult child first. It is important that any adult entering into a therapeutic do so on their own accord, will, and when they are ready. I will not see any adult without their knowledge or consent prior. Their adult child must be the one to initiate any contact with me prior.