Imago Relationship Therapy

IRT is a form of couples therapy that focuses on understanding the reasons couples are drawn to each other, the reasons that couples struggle with their relationship, and the skills needed to reach a deeper and more intimate partnership.  Information about Imago can be found at www.gettingtheloveyouwant.com. I am a Certified Imago Relationship Therapist and use this process in working with couples.   John* and Elizabeth* (not their real names) came to me afraid and angry. A terrible conflict a year ago had led to months of separation. They feared for their marriage, and they mourned the effect of their distress on their young children.   Teaching this couple the principles of Imago Relationship therapy – that you are exactly right for your partner, that you hold the key to your partner’s growth, as your partner does for you, and that skills exist to help you do this – was such a gift to me.  As we worked together, I became for both of them the warm and wise parent neither had had. They grew in trust and skill. They passed the anniversary of their conflict without problems, and they have continued their process of deepening appreciation and respect for each other. Working with couples is a passion for me. I see this process change lives, and I love being part of it.   If you are looking for help for your relationship, please call me. I have something wonderful to offer you.

EMDR

I am a Level-II trained EMDR clinician.  Information about EMDR can be found at www.emdr.com. EMDR is a method for resolving traumatic experiences.   Department of Veterans Affairs and Department of Defense (2004). VA/DoD Clinical Practice Guideline for the Management of Post-Traumatic Stress. Washington, DC. EMDR was placed in the "A" category as “strongly recommended” for the treatment of trauma. I have found EMDR to be a very helpful process for individuals who have suffered a traumatic experience, ranging from a car accident to a history of more severe traumatic issues from childhood.

Eating Issues

Many women (and more and more men) in our culture have a disordered relationship with food. In focusing on external cues (like how many calories, fat grams, carbs are in a certain food), they have lost sight of their own internal awareness of fullness, satisfaction, and choice in relationship to food. I work with clients to reestablish these natural connections and to find ways other than the use of food to soothe painful feelings. I work with clients in both individual and group settings.

Bereavement and Loss

Loss of a beloved partner, parent, pet or profession can be excruciating for the individual. Gentle support and a place to bring all the feelings associated with loss are helpful and often essential to the healing process. While we do not recover from loss in the sense that all is as it was, we can and need to find ways to move into a new part of our lives. Talking with a supportive counselor can support the individual and or family in making this transition.       To schedule an appointment, please call 615-321-8624.