Problem.
A problem is almost always a conflict of some kind, whether it is internal, invisible conflict, or conflict between yourself and others. Our lives are filled with expectations, and when these expectations aren't met we experience disappointment, discouragement, even despair.
Most of us try our best to find a solution. But our best can sometimes fail- often, people are just too close, too involved, too busy dealing with their own reactions to the problem.
That's when it makes sense to get a trained, outside perspective.
I can help you:
- end the frustration of going over the same ground again and again
- stop worrying about how conflict is affecting important relationships
- reduce the self-criticism that comes from not getting anywhere on important questions or issues
Relationship.
Most problems can be handled when we have strong, supportive and understanding relationships- with ourselves, and with others. And sometimes worry, insecurity, anger or hurt can threaten our relationships, leaving us feeling isolated and alone. But that can change.
People working with me have found:
- they develop more ease in handling difficult conversations
- a more relaxed approach to their relationship with kids, spouses, and family members
- and increased confidence in handling their own reactions to changes, challenges and concerns
It's not that conflict will never happen again- but it doesn't have to be overwhelming.
Therapy.
Whether you think of it as 'coaching', 'counselling' or 'consulting', asking an neutral person to join you as you develop a plan for change will help you gain control of the thing that wakes you up in the middle of the night.
My committment to you, as a trained, experienced and ethical therapist, is:
- to listen carefully for your preferences
- to help you understand the influence of the problem
- and to collaborate with you as you develop an effective plan of action
We can get started with a free 20 minute phone call.
This will help us decide if we can work well together. You might pay attention to whether you feel understood, hopeful about meeting with me, and whether our schedules are compatible.
I will be checking to see if I can offer what you are hoping for, whether my questions seem useful to you, and whether I feel my experience is well matched to your situation.
If you are thinking of bringing your child to see me, we will need to consider the consent of both parents, the ideas and hopes that you have for your child, and how your child might be introduced to the idea of working with me.
We'll decide together if the match is good. Most of the benefit of therapy is based on a good working relationship between the counselor and the person! So, if it doesn't feel right, I'm happy to suggest a colleague.
To schedule this free initial call, leave me a voice mail or text message at 416 878-7114, with a number and time that would be convenient for you.
I will get back to you right away.
Once We Start Working Together...
I will help you define how problems are getting in the way of your life and steps you can take to get back on track. It is my job to ask thought provoking and action stimulating questions, and together we come up with next steps that you can live with. Very often, even thinking differently about a problem will help you get closer to your valued way of living.
During our meeting, I will ask you if the conversation is useful, and if we are moving in the right direction. We will make notes together, and work for 50 focused minutes to develop some useful next steps. At the end of the session, you will decide whether or not to plan another meeting, and how soon you would like that to happen. You have the option of keeping a copy of the notes made during our session for your own use.
What happens after our conversation...
You are welcome to call at any point for a further meeting if one is not already arranged. There is no expectation of a weekly commitment, and there is no set number of meetings required for service. These decisions are up to you.
Location and times
Meetings are scheduled at mutually convenient times, including weekend and evening appointments.
The location is the Leaside Therapy Centre at 1395 Bayview Avenue.
There is street parking available, and it is easy to get here by bus: from the Davisville station on the Yonge Street Line, take the number 11 Bayview. Get off at the first stop before the bus turns onto Bayview, and walk south one block.
When you are ready, call or text 416 878-7114
or email me at [email protected]