Why do we do what we do? It seems that everyone in some way or another is looking for the answer to this question. Whether it be in regards to personal issues or within the dynamics of a relationship, all behavior makes sense in its context. Once we stop to actually research what that context may be, we gain a better understanding of not only our own behavior, but the behavior of those around us. What once seemed like inappropriate and angry misbehavior, may now be understood as discouraged behavior based on a pattern of disappointment. Psychotherapy offers a way to find that context, how it became what it is, and how it can be changed to something much more favorable.
PSYCHOTHERAPY FOR INDIVIDUALS COUPLES AND FAMILIES
Albert Einstein said that “Insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.” I still find that this quote probably best fits my idea of what therapy is really all about.
Bottom line, you have been doing what you are doing and are not happy. Maybe you have even tried a few different things but are still frustrated that life somehow stays the same or even gets worse. Chances are, either what you are doing is clearly not working for you or your expectations are unrealistic. Therapy is really all about learning how to do it different in order to get the desired result. Don’t get me wrong, the whole “feel good factor” is definitely a large part of it as well (the validation, empowerment, healing, repairing of relationships, etc.). But stripped down to the core, doing it differently to bring about positive change is what it’s all about.
Those who work with me come to know this as my “catch phrase.” When they leave my office, I will often remind them to go about their week and “do it differently.” Only by doing it differently can we make our lives different. Therapy offers the “how to” in order to most effectively “do it different.” You can’t make different choices doing the same things or thinking the same way. This concept is beautifully illustrated by Carl Jung’s statement, “No problem can be solved on the level of consciousness that created the problem in the first place.”
Additionally, one of the most important factors for anyone seeking therapy to consider is finding the right therapist. So what does that mean? It means finding someone with whom you connect. It means feeling like you are really listened to and that the environment around you is safe and inviting. When these conditions are in place positive change is facilitated. My practice is centered around creating this type of therapist-client interaction.
