Welcome to Counseling Works
Illuminating the human path toward wholeness
Learn about our Approach
Our Approach
Creating an inviting space for self exploration is the backbone of our approach. Our therapists lean into the idea that “two things can be true at once”, believing that when we embody this attitude, our lives become more expansive, rather than narrow. Our goal is to help you feel more sturdy, even when your path forward feels uncertain. We will help you hone your internal resources, making space for more choice and confidence as you move toward your goals.
We use the science practitioner model, practicing an evidence based approach while honoring a commitment to "seeing the best in you". We also celebrate the extensive variety of healing philosophies that exist outside the bounds of western science, and are dedicated to continuous professional curiosity and personal growth.
Treatment Focus
When we are struggling with a mental health or an interpersonal concern or a big transition, it is common to feel alone, overwhelmed or withdrawn. Taking the step toward professional help is tough and yet, it is the first step to harnessing your internal courage. You can do this.
Our focus is to help you build self awareness and create new ways of feeling empowered in the world, often moving from a place of imbalance toward feeling more whole and confident. Collaborative treatment plans are created to meet your personal goals.
Here are some examples of empowered living goals:
1.Learning to use body awareness as a tool for increasing authenticity.
2. Reaching for your goals and desires, even when you feel discomfort or scared
3.Getting comfortable disappointing others and still feeling whole and worthy
4.Practicing embracing your tarnished parts without feeling "less than"
Discomfort is Certain in Life... Suffering is Optional! Let us be your guide to a more expansive life!
Areas of Focus
Transitions and Life Stages
Transitions in life can throw us off balance, making us feel scared, confused or overwhelmed. Taking on a new role in life (like parenting or a new leadership role) or starting a new life phase
(going to college) can be daunting and counseling can give you the extra support you need to manage this change. Transitions include life stages too- childhood, adolescents, college age students, retirees and everything in between. Learning new skills can help strengthen your confidence during times of transition.
Women's Issues
Women often face unique challenges of discrimination, body image or struggles with finding balance, often due to limiting cultural demands. Times of life transitions like motherhood, including prenatal, pregnant and postpartum times or career change can be tough. Counseling can help with empowerment, skill building, self acceptance and support.
Depression and Anxiety
Depression, fear and anxiety are some of the most common and uncomfortable emotional states that we can experience in our lives. Through counseling and treatment, you can recover motivation, perspective, and joy that you once had in your life.
Grief and Loss
Grief and loss are a natural part of life and yet a loss can often feel devastating, paralyzing and isolating. Seeking help to process your loss can help you manage your emotions and begin to heal.
Building Social and Emotional Skills
Self Awareness is the first step to creating any personal change. Increasing your emotional vocabulary can help you increase awareness and become more mindful about your choices and behavior. Counseling can help grow your ability to use conflict resolution, communication and productive disagreement skills. Improving social and emotional skills can impact your mood, motivation, relationships and much more.
Trauma
Experiencing any type of trauma impacts your mind and body in many disruptive ways. It often leads to coping strategies that are no longer useful. Healing old wounds or recovering from a recent traumatic incident is possible and we can help you move toward more empowered living.
An Integrated Approach
Compassion Focused
Inclusive and Systemic
Inclusive and Systemic
Compassion is integrated into all elements of the therapeutic process. Identifying ways to enhance ones own self compassion and increase compassion toward others can positively impact ones self esteem, relationships and overall functioning.
Inclusive and Systemic
Inclusive and Systemic
Inclusive and Systemic
Exploring and responding to how race, gender and culture impact one's life and the conflicts between these structures, including the systems we live in, are important parts of the therapeutic process.
Skill Building
Inclusive and Systemic
Skill Building
Skill building is center stage during the therapeutic process. Treatment approaches include ACT, Somatic, IFS, CBT, and mindfulness based practices that will help you be more intentional about your behavior.
Resources
Helpful resources:
What is Professional Counseling? https://www.counseling.org/aca-community/learn-about-counseling/what-is-counseling
Self Compassion http://self-compassion.org/
Wellbeing- The Greater Good Science Center at UC Berkeley https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/
Perspective Taking: “Fear is a natural reaction to moving closer to the truth”
― Pema Chödrön, When Things Fall Apart: Heart Advice for Difficult Times
Brene Brown- The Power of Vulnerability Ted Talk
https://www.ted.com/talks/brene_brown_on_vulnerability
Introduction to Mindfullness
https://www.helpguide.org/harvard/benefits-of-mindfulness.htm
Suicide Prevention Hotline- National https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/
Crisis and Suicide Intervention in Pittsburgh - Resolve Crisis Center at
888-796-8826 24/7
resolve Crisis Services | UPMC - UPMC.com
*Disclaimer: the content of this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional or psychological services. The use of this website does not constitute a therapist-client relationship.
