People come into therapy for many reasons. Some need to respond to unexpected changes in their lives, while others seek self-exploration and personal growth. When coping skills are overwhelmed by guilt, doubt, anxiety, or despair, therapy can help. Therapy can provide support, problem-solving skills, and enhanced coping for issues such as depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship issues, unresolved childhood issues, bereavement, spiritual conflicts, stress management, body image issues, and creative blocks. People seeking psychotherapy are willing to take responsibility for their actions, work towards self-change and create greater awareness in their lives.

During sessions you are expected to talk about the primary concerns and issues in your life. A session can last between 1-2 hours with a frequency of one session per week. During the time between sessions, it is beneficial to think about and process what was discussed. You may be asked to take certain actions outside (I like to call it "heartwork") of the therapy sessions, such as: journaling, body awareness or reading a relevant book. For therapy to "work," you must be an active participant, both in and outside of the therapy sessions.

Therapy can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem or point you in the direction of a solution. The benefits you obtain from therapy depend on how well you use the process and put into practice what you learn. Some of the benefits available from therapy include:

• Increased self-awareness and self-confidence
• Richer relationships
• Acquiring concrete skills to better manage: stress, depression and anxiety
• Improved communications skills
• More effective problem solving tools
• Clarity in how to resolve old patterns

Transpersonal psychology draws it's methodology from the spiritual traditions of the world, including eastern philosophies such as Buddhism, the Yogic traditions of India, and Western Contemplative traditions, and integrates them with contemporary psychology. Yet, transpersonal psychology is not about religion, but is simply about looking at the whole person while drawing from ancient traditions. Essentially, it is an approach to the whole person. It seeks a balanced development of the mental, emotional, spiritual, physical, social, and creative expression of a person's life.

The core theory of Gestalt rests in the promotion of awareness, specifically, the awareness of one's present feelings and behaviors, and the contact between one's self and his/her environment. It is an experiential therapy that trusts in a persons' ability to self regulate (self as inherently whole) when given the opportunity. It also emphasizes personal responsibility and the power of the client-therapist relationship.

It is important to note, that while I do not handle insurance, I provide each client with an invoice containing all the necessary information. Additionally, I have many clients who, by submitting the invoice provided, get a portion reimbursed. I encourage you to look into the specifics of what your insurance will cover.

In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and a psychotherapist. Information is not disclosed without written permission. However, there are number of exceptions to this rule. Exceptions include:

• Suspected child abuse or dependant adult or elder abuse. The therapist is required by law to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
• If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person/s. The therapist must notify the police and inform the intended victim.
• If a client intends to harm himself or herself. The therapist will make every effort to enlist their cooperation in insuring their safety. If they do not cooperate, further measures may be taken without their permission in order to ensure their safety.