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Counseling and Psychotherapy for Adults

When people come to counseling, it is because they want something to be different in their lives. They may want to solve a particular problem, improve their relationships, know themselves better, or enhance their sense of well-being. My clients come from different racial and ethnic backgrounds. They speak English and/or Spanish and self-identify as straight, gay, lesbian or are questioning their sexual orientation. They are single, in committed relationships, or have families with children. Their spiritual experiences and/or personal values are diverse and I often assist them to explore their significance during stressful times. Each journey is unique and I strive to be a supportive companion.

I specialize in individual counseling and psychotherapy for adults (ages 18+). My approach to counseling is an integration of psychodynamic and humanistic models that emphasize depth in personal life and relationships. I also incorporate strategies from acceptance and commitment therapy and mindfulness-based stress reduction to assist individuals to improve their coping skills and enhance their sense of well-being. 

Specialty areas:
  • Depression and mood disorders
  • Anxiety disorders
  • Grief and loss
  • Interpersonal difficulties
  • Work-related stress
  • Life transitions (e.g., college, new baby, divorce, career change)
  • Crises of meaning (e.g., conflicts in values or beliefs, meaninglessness, spiritual struggle)
  • Diversity (e.g., acculturation stress, spirituality, oppression, LGBTQI issues)
  • Coaching for personal growth and development
  • Bilingual psychotherapy (English / Spanish)

Note:
(1) While I may meet with spouses/partners and other family members as part of an individual's counseling process, I do not provide couple's or family counseling. If needed, I will provide a referral for a marriage and family therapist. (2) I often provide referrals for another specialist when substance use disorders are contributing to significant impairment.
We each have in our hearts a wellspring
from which waters of life want to flow
so that we may come alive
in every cell of our being
with new life, with presence, joy,
courage, beauty, genuineness
and, in our fruition, being of service to others;
to life itself.
- C. Michael Smith, PhD