Our counselors provide therapy in Lynchburg, VA

My approach to individual therapy is a mixture of the person-centered approach (Carl Rogers) and cognitive behavioral therapy (Beck). I find the benefit in this approach because it allows for the client to be heard and validated, and also be able to evaluate their actions, thoughts, and feelings. This in turn allows for a non-judgmental and warm therapeutic environment to explore topics within individual therapy.

I typically teach the following tools in individual therapy:

• Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy: This method involves bilateral movement of eyes, hands, or feet while you process traumatic memories to heal from these distressing memories.
• Challenging negative core beliefs: Processing through negative limiting beliefs.
• Examining cognitive distortions: Challenging negative thoughts and how to replace them.
• Grounding skills: Building coping skills for overwhelming thoughts or emotions.
• Communication skills: Working on how to better communicate thoughts, feelings, or needs to others.
• Conflict resolution skills: Improving one's ability to resolve conflict with others.
• Career exploration: Processing career interests and goals.

When a client is making meaningful progress in individual therapy, I notice that our goals and objectives in our treatment plan are starting to be achieved. The client can also feel a sense of more control over their symptoms and an improvement in overall functioning. In addition, they can talk with me about if we need to change our approach to make sure that they are getting the most out of therapy.

Clients can do multiple things, including but not limited to exercise, reading educational books about therapy, reading books about individuals who have overcome adverse events, meeting with their primary care/nutritionist to optimize their health, starting/engaging in hobbies, getting connected in positive social communities, etc.

In preparing for the first individual therapy session/intake, you can be ready for an information-gathering and get-to-know session as we discuss current symptoms and functioning, establish goals and objectives, and build a therapeutic relationship.