moving beyond diagnosis
One of the goals of therapy is to access, understand, and help unfold the true self, and this is a reason why many people may be fearful of the therapeutic process. Nobody would say that soul searching is easy. Yet regardless of whether we have done the work required of self-knowledge, the true self emerges sooner or later. If we have not done the work the self may emerge in an eruption or seeming disaster, or at least, something taking us by surprise; we may not like a rude surprise. Therapy is a way to regulate the self-discovery process and to be supported throughout. You can learn gently to trust your true self.
In good therapy you can expect to develop a graceful, trusting relationship with your therapist. This is important as the benefits of therapy come to you through the relationship. Slowly you will come to terms with uncertainty and become more able to make transformations. New awareness and capacities will emerge in an environment that is intuitive, welcoming and intimate. We will draw from every context to weave the fabric of meaning of your life. What does this include? Your thoughts, feelings, desires, family life and experiences, perceptions of the world around you, world wisdom traditions, the socioeconomic and political conditions of the day, and the latest scientific research. Everything we discuss is held in complete confidence. (According to California law, there are a couple exceptions; we can discuss this so you know clearly and up front.)
Typically a therapy session happens once a week and lasts 50 or 95 minutes, as appropriate. You might benefit from supplemental practices, which we can also discuss. I do not accept insurance because to be paid I would have to diagnose you with a disorder, regardless of whether I think you have one.
All forms of diversity are welcome in my consultancy.