I practice from an existential and modern psychoanalytic perspective. These are some key ways I understand what good therapy does:

• We often unconsciously repeat patterns that used to work but no longer help us. Good therapy helps us uncover why we keep doing the same things so we can generate alternative possibilities for living.

• Each person is unique and has inherent dignity and worth. Good therapy values your uniqueness and strengths.

• We generally suffer less when we come to accept our limitations. Good therapy helps us acknowledge our limits and mourn our losses.

• We all want to live lives of meaning and purpose that matter to us and those we love. Good therapy helps us discern what is worth holding onto, what to leave behind, and what is important to pursue.

• We are born into groups (e.g., families, communities, cultures) and are shaped by groups. Group therapy can often be a powerful alternative or complement to individual therapy.

• Many forces outside our control (e.g., economic, political, religious systems) limit our freedom and shape our sense of what is possible. Good therapy acknowledges the power of these forces in all of our lives, yet challenges us to change what is within our control.

• Each therapy is as unique as the people involved. Good therapy may work toward short-term solutions for relief from suffering or toward longer-term substantial change and growth. The important thing is taking it at your pace.