What is the first session like?

  1. Completion or review of the client information sheet
  2. Review of the client consent form
  3. Discussion of goals/issue

How many sessions will I have to attend?

That depends on how comfortable you feel about terminating therapy. It’s entirely up to you!  It also depends on the issue that you are experiencing.  Some clients are in the maintenance stage and they only need to be seen twice a month, while others may need more assistance (perhaps 3 or 4 times a month).

What makes you different from the other therapists in West Chester?

During my decade+ practice of Yoga I realized that it is a compliment to psychotherapy. I have decided to incorporate it into sessions if clients choose.

Does practicing Yoga conflict with my religious beliefs?  

Practicing yoga will not cause you to dishonor your higher power/religious beliefs. Yoga consists of an eightfold path and during the session we will not delve into all eight paths. I practice Hatha Yoga and maintain my own religious beliefs separate from yoga. The only paths I would focus on are Asanas (body postures/movements) and Pranayama (breathwork). Hatha Yoga works to rid the body of toxins through deep breathing.  It inherently trains the mind to engage in cognitive restructuring by working to focus the mind on body awareness. The unique benefit that Yoga offers is the joint movement of the body and mind.

As researchers Caplan, Portillo and Seely noted, “treatment of disorders such as depression, which is increasingly recognized as a mind-body phenomenon (Steckler & Young), must include both mind and body for full recovery.”  Yoga is able to bridge the gap between the mind and body that is often neglected or addressed late in treatment.

I have never done yoga do I have to do it?

No, only if you would like to try it.

It is entirely your choice and I will create a program that will accommodate your decision. There are many relaxation techniques that we can practice to reduce stress and produce calmness.   You can literally practice yoga in any condition unless your doctor (always seek medical advice) says otherwise or if you have medical concerns that prevent you from breathing deeply.

Do you accept insurance?

At this time I accept Independence Blue Cross, Optum, American Behavioral, United Behavioral, and Aetna.  If you are not covered by one of those companies do not hesitate to contact me about payment.