Counseling Approach
“The curious paradox is that when I accept myself as I am, then I can change.“ -Carl Rogers
Change is hard! We as humans tend to feel comfort in predictability and routine, and change (especially when sudden and unexpected) inherently challenges us to sit with discomfort. Finding meaning in those changes while learning skills to manage the added stress is an empowering, healing, and worthwhile endeavor.
So what’s my approach to counseling?
I am an eclectic clinician whose work with clients going through major life transitions is rooted in a hybrid of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Humanistic Therapy, and Existential Therapy.
Cool…what does “a hybrid of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Humanistic Therapy, and Existential Therapy” even mean? I mean I totally know what it means, but explain it to everyone else just in case THEY don’t.
This means three important things for you:
Cognitive Behavioral: I use well-researched therapeutic techniques to identify connections between your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. As we non-judgmentally explore certain patterns, we can challenge negative biases, develop realistic and empowering senses of self-worth, and act accordingly.
Humanistic: My therapeutic approach is person-centered and non-pathologizing, aka not focused on the diagnosis but rather on collaboratively problem-solving the challenges life throws at you. We’ll explore the ways we can utilize your strengths and abilities to navigate problem-solving your presenting concerns instead of trying to “fix” who you are. You are not “broken” for having an adverse reaction to change. Nurturing a sense of self-compassion is a vital part of growth, recovery, and healing in this space.
Existential: Suffering, like any emotion, is an inevitable part of the human experience and something all of us have in common. We can validate our experiences, make meaning of our pain, and also choose how to move forward. We have more power than we realize, even when certain pieces are out of our control, and it is worth tapping into that power. As Holocaust survivor and the father of existential therapy Viktor Frankl said, “When we are no longer able to change a situation - we are challenged to change ourselves.”
Pursuit of Happiness
If you are ready to face your hardships and make progress towards your mental health goals, you are right where you belong.
Achieve your mental health goals here at Capybara Counseling.
(Comic created in collaboration with Meg Adams, aka Artbymoga)