Clinical Focus
Individual Psychotherapy with Adults and Adolescents
When working with clients, my practice is integrative, which means I utilize various orientations and perspectives based on client needs and wants. Research shows that one of the most important elements of successful therapy is trust so that the client can be open in sharing feelings, thoughts, and experiences. For this reason, it is my priority to establish and provide a safe, non-judgmental, supportive environment where growth, healing and change can take place. Within this relationship, I utilize a client-centered and collaborative approach. Together, we will work to establish goals that will best match your needs, values, and beliefs. I often use a psychodynamic perspective. I believe past experiences impact present functioning. Together, my clients and I explore and examine this connection to relieve distress and symptoms, identify patterns, and improve one’s current relationships and life satisfaction. I also utilize cognitive-behavioral techniques to help clients alter their thoughts and gain control of their emotional state. Mindfulness strategies and relaxation exercises are also incorporated, when appropriate.
The reasons individuals seek treatment can vary, but I have listed some common concerns:
Addiction
There is no question that we have all been touched by addiction in some form and the wreckage that this insidious problem can cause. Dr. Paul Hersh is an addiction veteran with 30 years of experience.
“I thought there was no way out… I truly believed that. Paul saved my life when I was at my absolute lowest. I can’t thank him enough.”
- Patient testimonial
Depression
Depression comes in many forms with varying symptoms. Most commonly, those struggling with depression experience sadness, irritability, fatigue, hopelessness, worthlessness, low motivation, and guilt. Sleep and appetite can be affected and in more severe cases, thoughts of death or suicide may occur. Therapy is effective in treating depression and involves exploring the nature and roots of the depression, developing skills for managing symptoms, and increasing motivation and activity to generate hopefulness. Medication may be a helpful adjunct to our work and I can help you decide if a consultation is necessary.
Relationships
Relationships are often the most rewarding aspects of our lives, but they can also be the most challenging. Whether you are struggling with romantic relationships, familial relationships, or friendships, therapy can help you to create more satisfying connections. Together, we will explore your emotions and the relationship dynamic while identifying your role. We will help you to find more adaptive ways of relating to help you reach your relationship goals.
Coping with acute or chronic illness
The mind and body are interconnected. Physical illness can impact your emotional state and health in a variety of ways. Coping with illness can lead to stress, anxiety, and depression. Learning how to cope more adaptively with your illness improves both your mental and physical health. I have significant experience working with individuals with acute and chronic illnesses as I was a consultant in a medical center and at various sub-acute rehabilitation facilites and nursing homes. I have worked with clients managing illnesses including HIV/AIDS, cancer, diabetes, and chronic pain.
Job Stress
Work constitutes a significant portion of our lives so it would be expected that many people seek therapy due to work-related stress. You may feel frustrated with your job or “stuck” in a position that is unsatisfying. Therapy can help you to identify what you want to change and how to make it happen.
Anxiety and Panic
It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
Life Transitions and Stressors
Whether it is positive change or unwanted change, change is difficult. Sometimes it brings depressed mood, anxiety, difficulty sleep or change in appetite. Psychotherapy can help you to learn ways to cope with the transitions and minimize the associated discomfort.
Divorce
Whether your marriage ends amicably or with significantly more drama, divorce is difficult. I can help you to grieve the loss of your marriage, cope with the changes, and move forward with a satisfying life. I can also help you help your children manage this change.
Bereavement
Losing a loved one is painful. As you go through the grief process, therapy can provide you with the safe environment to mourn the loss and move through the stages of grief.
Trauma/PTSD/Abuse
Trauma can cause a wound so deep it cannot be seen but it is certainly felt. Depression, confusion, anxiety, shame, and anger are some common feelings. With psychotherapy, I can help you to rebuild trust, learn the skills to manage your pain, and regain control of your life.
Whatever your reason, therapy can provide many benefits. It provides a supportive, confidential environment to heal your pain, learn healthier skills to manage your emotions, reach your personal goals, and become the person you strive to be.
Group Psychotherapy
While individual psychotherapy is very helpful, there are times when the social context of group therapy can provide an added benefit. During group therapy, multiple clients meet with a therapist at the same time. Sometimes these groups are based on a particular topic or concern (e.g., divorce, parenting, pain management, infertility), but they can also be a general group.
Group therapy provides a way for members to explore themselves in relation to others within the safety of a therapy environment. It helps individuals develop and practice new ways of relating to others while receive feedback from peers. The members also provide strong social support to each other.
