Each day, many people face challenges in their daily lives. Challenges that can often be transformed and released using the therapeutic process and a counselor skilled in applying it.
These people who are suffering are often people we know, people we love, and then, of course, sometimes these people are us.
When we are facing one of life’s difficult circumstances, like the loss of a job, or a partner, life transitions such as menopause, or loss of lifestyle, your inner and outer worlds may become chaotic. You may feel completely out of control. All kinds of feelings come up, some of which may be familiar, and some may be completely foreign. You might feel like you'd like to hide, over-eat, drink too much, or run away. Or you might just feel out of sorts.
And when we are trying to cope with more then one challenge at a time, the situation can become overwhelming. There may be times of anxiety and fear about which way to turn and what to do next.
At these times, it is valuable to speak with someone else who may be able to support you to see things in different way. Someone who can help you shine a light on the present issues from a new different direction, and support you to build more internal skills and abilities to deal with them. This way your outlook for tomorrow can be that much brighter.
As a therapist, I understand that each client’s journey is unique, and that the problems each one of us faces are ours to work through. I work with each client to determine the best road out of these present issues and into a more promising future.
My philosophy is to counsel individuals and couples with a holistic approach which values clients' feelings, thoughts, signals from the body, and Spirit, in whatever way you perceive that to be. It is so important, when working with upsets and stresses, to tune in to all of what is going on, which through the counseling process, leads to greater healing and therefore, healthier lives.
I believe that the therapeutic relationship is a partnership where both client and therapist join in an understanding of what will serve the client’s needs at every point in the process. A compassionate connection where heartfelt listening and supportive feedback can take place allows for growth and awareness so that the client can move forward in his/her life with ease and grace.
Nancie Kohlenberger is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT), Counselor, Psychotherapist holding a Masters Degree in Spiritual Psychology from the University of Santa Monica, California. She provides individual counseling and couples counseling services. She has been a member of the the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT) since 1999. Her primary practice is in Newport Beach, Orange County, CA
"Your vision will become clear only when you can look into your own heart. Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakes." -- Carl Jung