Theory in Practice
Family Systems Theory
In my work with clients, and in my relationships with friends and family, I work towards maintaining a “systems” perspective. This refers to a point of view that sees beyond the individual to the complex network of emotional systems of which the individual is a member. A system could be a family, a group of friends, employees in a business or members of a church. Anywhere humans interact on a level deeper then casual contact, an emotional system develops. Our desires and motivations influence and in turn are influenced by the emotional systems we operate within. For more on the concepts within Family Systems Theory, click here. Another window will open, simply close that window to return to this screen.
Cognitive and Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Most of my training and clinical experience was grounded in the concepts and practice of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. As humans, we experience emotions. These emotions influence our decisions and are influenced by our decisions. Likewise, our thoughts and feelings influence our behaviors, and our behaviors influence our thoughts and feelings. Often times we find ourselves down a dead end road with no conception of how we ended up there. Or perhaps it’s a familiar dead end, that we’ve come to time and time again, but we are frustrated and confused at how we keep ending up in the same place. Cognitive and Behavioral Theories seek to unravel the decision making process and explore what underlies the choices and actions that we take. Patterns in our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors emerge, and with insight and action, you can begin to intervene, and change can occur. For more on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy click here. A new window will open, simply close the window to return to this page.
Imago Relationship Therapy
While not a certified Imago Therapist, I draw on this theory in my work with couples. The “Imago” is the unconscious image we hold of our parents. According to Harville Hendrix, PhD, author of “Getting the Love You Want”, people select their mates by seeking “Imago matches”—individuals who resemble their parents in salient ways. A couple’s relationship dynamic is created and shaped as each partner interacts with his or her Imago match, revisiting unfinished or unresolved issues from childhood. This theoretical framework help shape my view of relationships and together with Family Systems, is a guiding model for work I do with couples. For more on Imago Therapy, please click here.
Motivational Interviewing (MI)
In large part, this refers to the mindset of the counselor/therapist. As described above, it’s my viewpoint that clients carry within them all the raw material necessary to be complete human beings. This doesn’t mean that there is no outside information, source of energy or life, knowledge that is relevant and needed. But it does influence the stance the counselor takes in relation to the client and the issues presented. I see it as my role to draw out of my clients the answers to the questions they bring to the session. I lean on concepts from this theory to guide my work with clients. It influences the questions I ask, my perception of the problems and solutions presented, and the role I play in the relationship with my clients. For more on Motivational Interviewing, click here, and a new window will open. Simply close the window to return to this page.
Christian Spirituality
I believe that human beings are spiritual beings. I adhere to the belief expressed in this quote by Pierre Teilhard de Chardin, “We are not human beings on a spiritual journey. We are spiritual beings on a human journey.” Personally, I follow the Christian tradition, attempting to live my life in the way of Jesus. I respect the spiritual beliefs of my clients and in my practice, follow their lead on how and when to incorporate their faith and spiritual beliefs into the work we are doing together.