This happens to be my favorite thing - discharge from services.  It happens a lot.  I would say, most of my clients who come to therapy with the idea “I am at my lowest. I don’t think I will get better. Noting works.” leave therapy within 4-6 sessions.  Some a little longer, many others less.  

How is it that this happens?  I am a solution, strength and power focused therapist. I talk in these terms. Simple. I work to give specific skills vs fix problems. Skill development makes clients leave capable, happy and strong.  

I am very good at observation - looking.  I see, rather quickly, what may be the cause of a problem. I observe facial expression, body language and interaction patterns. These all become part of the story a person tells.

I listen with intention. I examine vocabulary, tone, intensity, silence.  I ask questions and then I allow and encourage communication.  At times, it comes back, “I don’t know”, a shrug of the shoulders, a darting glance, a heavy sigh.  These signs all add flavor to the story, define starting points and create the energy required for change. Silence is one of the most telling, loud responses.  

I see all people as worthy.  My work is to help them see it too. People talk and become part of their solutions because I throw love at every tired soul that enters.  

You see, we are all alike.  We all want to be seen, heard and understood. We have needs that sometimes we can’t identify or define - but we feel the lack. We all want to trust and feel safe. We all strive for control and need love and acceptance. We all have damage on some level that needs explored and understood. We all have dreams that we want to bring alive.  

My work is simple, yet complex. I embrace the challenges to find the possibilities. I believe, embrace and help people move in their identified direction, all while sharing hope, love and honesty.  

I am blessed.