Psychotherapist
Experience
I am a licensed psychotherapist with 20 years of specializing in drug-free treatment of Anxiety and Mood Disorders, advising medication only when necessary.
My doctoral work consisted of original research on the cause and treatment of anxiety disorders, especially Panic Disorder. You may read my dissertation titled, “Alexithymia: A Pathogenic Factor in the Etiology of Panic Disorder.”
My treatment approach involves combined use of : Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Psychodynamic Insight Therapy
Expertise
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety and Panic Disorder as well as depression and low self-esteem in adults and adolescents. In addition to treating anxiety disorders, I also have extensive experience in treating:
- Depression
- Low Self-Esteem
- ADD/ADHD
- GLBT Issues
- Bipolar Disorder
- Addictions
- Adjustment Disorders
I’m a member of the Western Psychological Association and Anxiety Disorders Association of America.
Approach
My treatment for anxiety disorders involves both Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Insight Therapy. It is essential to use both these techniques to truly reduce or eliminate anxiety as opposed to controlling its symptoms with medication – except when necessary. I generally suggest a trial of several sessions before resorting to the addition of medication, but each situation is unique and some individuals may need medication from the outset to facilitate more effective talking therapy.
I would recommend that a new patient also first purchase my audio program: “Anxiety to Serenity”. The concentrated information presented in this series provides a head start in developing an understanding of anxiety and the techniques to reduce it. Listening to “Anxiety to Serenity” will also make follow-up phone sessions more effective if office visits are not possible.
Insight or Psychodynamic Therapy helps to identify the underlying issues and hidden emotions that may contribute to the formation of an anxiety disorder and facilitates resolution of those issues.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy helps to identify, challenge and eliminate the irrational, anxiety producing thoughts and avoidant behaviors that cause the terror of panic attacks, chronic anxiety, obsessions & compulsions.