Thoughts
Much examination can be done privately, but often there are external events in our lives that throw us off our game. We can feel lost or stuck or highly emotional and really not know why. At those points in our lives, we need an outside, unbiased point of view to help us see ourselves in a new light. Our friends and families are too close, and sometimes too invested in the outcome of our situation, to offer objective counseling. Those are the moments to seek psychotherapy.
Theoretical Orientation
I work from a dual perspective - psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral theories. Often we have beliefs and ideas about ourselves, which derive from childhood and are no longer true or relevant. These faulty bases of thinking often have outsized power over our current decisions. Because these beliefs and ideas run so deep, they are beneath our conscious awareness, and we continue to prove them true. Therapy helps bring them into focus so we can truly have a look at what works and what doesn't. We can begin to let go of old ideas which no longer serve us. While it is helpful to spend a little time on childhood and family of origin, we will not get stuck there. It is only useful to understand the underpinnings of the current issues and then move on.
All research has shown that, regardless of the theoretical orientation of the therapist, successful therapy is reliant upon three factors: warmth, empathy and genuineness. Those three qualities happen to be my strengths!
Irwin Yalom, MD, psychiatrist and author, states, "It's the relationship that heals." Psychoanalysis in the past always promoted therapists who were "blank slates", revealing absolutely nothing about themselves in the course of treatment. I believe that is why psychoanalysis goes on forever. Humanists recommend listening and affirming - "That must have been awful" and "How does that make you feel?" - which is kind, but not all that helpful, in my opinion.
I will be an active participant in your process, giving you feedback and sharing my opinions. I will not insult your intelligence by asking you stupid questions or parroting your feelings back at you. Additionally, I will encourage, even beg, you to keep me in the loop about what you feel is working for you in our therapy and when you feel we're wasting time. You are the one in charge of your life and your therapy. Let's get started!
Therapy Does Not Need To Take Forever
Therapy doesn't have to be a long, drawn-out process; depending on what's going on in your life, we could meet for 6 weeks, a few months, or a year - but not forever! Often people begin with sessions once a week and then after a month or so, drop back to every other week. Each person is different and these parameters can be decided as we go.
These same principles of examination apply equally well to couples therapy and help to heal relationships that have gone awry. Often just the commitment to couples' work can have a positive impact; now each partner is more conscious and intentional in their interactions. Exploring and understanding each other more deeply has lasting positive effect.
As a psychotherapist, I am honored and awed by the process of therapy and the amazing transformations that happen when a person chooses the examined life.
Psychotherapy can seem intimidating or even emotionally painful. It really isn't either, though there could be some revelations which are less than pleasant. Psychotherapy is exhilarating and sometimes even fun! Simply contact me via email at connie@conniehalltherapy.com or by phone at 310-346-2630 and we'll set up a time to begin! I am currently seeing clients via Sessions @ Psychology Today or Zoom, both of which are secure and HIPAA compliant.
