Common Problems

Most people seek therapy because of a crisis in their lives, something that has overcome their ability to manage their mood or anxiety level. Sometimes there is a long-standing chronic stress that is becoming less and less manageable and more symptomatic, with a final ’last straw’. Sometimes a crisis comes rapidly and surprisingly. Many people are having difficulties right now because of the recent economic challenges here in Michigan and in the greater economy with job losses, loss of retirement funds, natural disasters, and a general mood of stress and worry. Other examples include:

• Mood disorders and depression caused by or complicated by a recent event such as loss of job
• Marital stress that has been building for years or has become a recent crisis because of events such as the revelation of an affair or loss of job
• Substance abuse or addictive disorders and co-dependency in yourself or a family member
• Grief reactions related to a recent death (which doesn’t have to be all that recent if it is still intense) or another loss
• Family crisis brought on by divorce, death, problems with children and adolescents, financial challenges, unemployment, legal crisis
• Younger adult challenges in career, relationships and marriage, education, and living on one’s own
• General anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder that makes life quite difficult
• Recent health crisis causing fear, worry, and depressed mood
• Stress, frustration, or self-doubt from unresolved issues with prior or current professional relationships on and off the job
• Early life psychological issues, including childhood trauma. This might be an on-going healing challenge or something being brought to your awareness now from a situational challenge in the present. This could include something quite positive like a new love relationship or weight loss
• Spiritual/religious conflicts and or a desire for awareness, growth and inner peace

In addition to all of the above, you might be someone seeking therapy with past positive therapy experiences wanting to continue on that path of self-realization and growth. A large percentage of my clients have had prior psychotherapy.

Take Action. Sometimes it’s hard to make that call – to take that first step. A phone call is not a commitment. I offer a free initial phone or office consultation. It may be important for you to interview several psychotherapists to identify one with whom you are comfortable, and who has the knowledge and skills to help you.