Category Archives: success

Therapy Style, continued…

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Another important part of my therapy style is seeking and developing Exceptions. Exceptions are times/places/relationships when the problem does NOT present itself.

It can be argued that some suffering is part of the human condition; however, the worst problems have a way of becoming a dominant theme, encroaching on multiple areas of life. I help people develop problem-free zones. Articulating and building these exceptional experiences helps develop nuanced awareness and the increased personal agency required to respond to difficulties.

Therapy Style

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When asked about my therapy style, people often want to know two things: what are some of my core assumptions? how do I relate to clients?

  • I understand that people have variation, including biological variation. One person may be fundamentally different from other people.
  • An individual’s biochemistry and personality may vary and adapt throughout time.
  • A pattern of thoughts/emotions/and actions may be described as a relational template. Relational templates that are adaptive in a previous context may become generalized into other parts of a person’s life. Unfortunately, the generalizations may become problematic in newer contexts. In that case, the person may revise their thoughts/emotions/actions.
  • I position myself as a collaborator with the client. Rather than take a prescriptive approach or a passive approach, I solicit the client’s participation. I expect clients to challenge themselves while I am an active respondent. We share power and control so that new dynamics and opportunities develop.

The Grand Prix of Hallucinations

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A community-based treatment culture in Japan empowers people with schizophrenia to live meaningful, connected lives by sharing their self-directed research, interactive presentations, and theatrical Hallucinations and Delusions Grand Prix . These activities foster inclusion and accountability. “I used to be a captive of my symptoms. Now I investigate them.” Bethel House.

Celebrating 3 Years

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My independent counseling business turned 3 years old! During this time I enhanced my professional knowledge, expanded contracts with insurance companies, and initiated two support groups. I’m ready for another great year.

A Creative Way to Manage Mental Illness

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Giulietta Carrelli manages her schizoaffective disorder, in part, by making herself a recognizable public figure. She wears the same clothing style everyday; has unique tattoos; and takes the same route through the city everyday. Strangers get to know her and help her when she experiences psychotic episodes, which she calls “Trouble.”

She expanded her support network by developing her own business (starting with $1,000), which apparently created a toast craze throughout the city. This article gives a poignant narrative about Carrelli and answers the question of “why toast?”

Approach to Problems

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Many people avoid problems–or at least avoid discussing them. Some people experience total defeat when a solution does not appear immediately. Here is an approach to problems I encourage and utilize in my practice:

-Problems are discussable.
-Most problems do not require an immediate resolution.
-Exposing problems may enhance opportunities and choices.

Ask Amy

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If you enjoy advice columns or processing life conundrums, you may enjoy the Ask Amy series on youtube. Amy Poehler created a series of short videos with titles like: Apologies, Courage, Negativity, and Friendship. Obviously, the information won’t fit every situation–but I hope you get some new ideas or laughs.

Ask Amy

Quote about Success and Failure

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Occasionally, I will be posting a quote of the day. Today, I’m on a lengthy telephone hold with a bureaucracy. I found a pertinent message:

“Life’s real failure is when you do not realize how close you were to success when you gave up” –unknown