About
I am an eclectic therapist and specialize in family therapy from a strengths-oriented approach, as well as cognitive behavior modification and rational emotive behavior therapy. I provide individual, couple/marital and family therapy for all ages and backgrounds.
My professional mental health experience has spanned over 40 years and includes a wide range of services such as serving as child advocate, working in high conflict divorce cases, anger management, individual counselling and family support.
One of the most fulfilling aspects of working in the mental health field is being able to provide support to others during the mot challenging moments in their lives.
Moreover, this profession provides the privilege of offering compassion, inspiring hope and teaching others the necessary skills required to overcome their current circumstances.
I find it fulfilling to work in this inustry because I can see firtsthand and directly the positive impact I have on another person. I can immediately provide someone with a resource that can make their lives better for having worked with me. To witness the tremendous growth that my clients experience as they transform from sad, lost, struggling, to confident, capable and self-assured is extremely rewarding!
Highlights
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
I listen carefully to what the customer is seeking to change, improve or resolve; his/her concerns/issues or challenges he/she is facing. I ask whether they have entered therapy/counseling in the past or recently and whether they have specific goals in mind. I use a series of questions to determine their pscycho-social background to establish a quick baseline (e.g. are you currently on medication, under the care of any doctors, current marital status, etc.). Finally, I invite them to consider three sessions which will provide them with immediate feedback such as identifying their blindspots. I do not like to create co-dependency and as such, do not agree with long term therapy unless we both determine it is necessary. Ultimately, that is the client's decision. I wish to empower clients and build on their strengths.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have been a therapist for 38 years in the states of Texas and Colorado. I worked in Behavioral Health Hospital in El Paso, for depression, alcohol and drug addiction; I worked for the Department of Corrections; the Teachers Union and Law Enforcement organizations such as the Border Patrol.
I am a child advocate and have served as couselor in high conflict divorces.
I have conducted family therapy and interventions.
I was appointed by the court system to work with professional baseball and football players for anger management and domestic violence issues.
I also specialize in sports psychology, working with high school and college athletes striving for olympics or professional leagues. I teach mental toughness and self control.
Currently focus on bullying prevention programs in our schools through a nonprofit I founded called Be A Friend Make A Friend.
Dual MA's from University of Texas and University of Denver: Counseling and Educational Psychology and Health
Completed 3,000 hours required for state licensure (which I no longer renew).
Registered Psychotherapist in the State of Colorado
Do you have a standard pricing system for your services? If so, please share the details here.
I can offer a sliding scale but typically charge $95/hour (sessions are usually 1 hour but can be extended if necessary). For three sessions, agreed to upfront, I charge $250.
Couples therapy is $130/hr.
Family unit therapy is $140.
I do not submit insurance billing/invoices any longer. I use Venmo for billing collections. @Elon-Cohen. I am open to agreed partial payment contract. I offer a 15 minute free of service consultation fee to understand your request and set a sound objectices to meet your personal goals.
How did you get started in this business?
I got started right after I completed my state exam and opened up my own mental health office in El Paso, Texas called the Family Stress Center.
What types of customers have you worked with?
I have worked with children, at-risk students, youth and adults with various multicultural backgrounds.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I am very passionate about my work in bullying and cyberbullying prevention. See www.beafriendmakefriend.com
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a pro in your area of expertise?
I would advise people looking for a therapist to ask candidate therapists if their training included identifying their own personal issues. A therapist's most critical expertise comes from self-awareness and knowledge especially in the areas of abandonment, separation and loss.
What questions should customers think through before talking to pros about their needs?
Why are you seeking therapy now?
What is your goal(s) for your therapy?
How long do I want to spend working on my issue?
What questions do you have for the therapist? e.g. how do approach anger or phobias, etc.