While what you will read below is my “theoretical orientation”, it may look very different from patient to patient because each person brings his or her unique history, problems, and skills. The first few sessions of our work will help me get a picture of what is happening in your life, what you want to achieve in therapy (goals), and your motivation and the energy available to work on change. I also realize people respond best to different styles of interaction, for example, some are “thinkers”, some “doers”, and some people are “feelers”. I try to adjust my interaction style to fit my patients’ needs. So, one size does not fit all.
My approach is based on the psychological theories under the Humanistic umbrella including person-centered, existential, and experiential. This approach is built upon the assumptions that people cannot be understood apart from their unique contexts (temperament, history, culture, spirituality, relationships, etc.), we experience a strong drive/desire for love and connection, and we all face the universal existential challenges of death, freedom/responsibility, isolation/relatedness, and meaning.
This approach to therapy does not adhere to the strict medical model but trusts the power of an authentic relationship within which people change their lives. The focus is on the individual’s actual lived experience in the pursuit of understanding what it means for him or her to be human and in relationship.
"The curious paradox is that when I accept myself as I am, then I can change." Carl Rogers
The Interpersonal wing of this therapy focuses on understanding and improving current relational functioning by raising awareness of and exploring relationship patterns, losses, conflicts, transitions, and unskillful approaches to relationships. The therapeutic relationship is the laboratory in which the exploration and change begins. I will ask you important questions, help you explore possible answers, experiment with change, and find meaning. This is a collaborative process where you are always the ultimate expert because you will decide what might work and what you are ready, willing, and able to do to effect change in your life.
The Mindfulness wing of this therapy emphasizes the training of one’s attention to be fully present to moment-to-moment experience without clinging to judgments about that experience. It involves tuning in to one’s physical/mental/emotional experience as a way of discovering one’s deepest desires and meaning. This type of mindfulness opens windows to understanding one’s experiences and fears in relation to death, freedom/responsibility, and isolation/relatedness. Click on the mindfulness link to learn more about it.
Is it appropriate for everyone?
I believe that just about anyone could benefit from this approach tailored for her or his particular situation. There is growing research on the brain, mindfulness, and attunement (relatedness) that is documenting the wide ranging potential applications and success of these ideas. See Daniel Siegel’s work at the Mindful Awareness Research Center (MARC) connected with UCLA or his new book “The Mindful Brain.”
Do I use other approaches?
I do incorporate strategies from other theories of therapy such as Cognitive Behavioral, Psychodynamic, Family Systems, and Reality Therapy etc.; however, I understand your problems and personality through the lens of my interpersonal/mindfulness theory. We will choose the strategies that seem best suited to your goals, interests, and personal style.
Can you do interpersonal without mindfulness or mindfulness without interpersonal?
Short answer is, yes.
In summary, your and my commitment to time, energy, and honesty along with the two wings of collaborative relationship and compassionate attention offer you the opportunity to achieve the meaningful life you crave.
Fayetteville, AR 72701
(479) 442-2530
slfpsyd@yahoo.com