Psychotherapy is both a science and an art.
We have an ever-growing body of research on evidence-based treatments and strategies for well-being. My knowledge of current research always informs my work with clients. I have training/experience in a variety of different therapeutic approaches: cognitive behavioral therapies (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, meditation/mindfulness, and positive psychology practices. This diverse background allows me to integrate various therapeutic strategies based on the needs of the client. The art of psychotherapy involves being flexible and creative enough to use a practical “do what works” rather than a “one size fits all” approach.
More important than any specific technique or philosophy is the relationship between therapist and client. In fact, studies show that the therapeutic alliance is the strongest predictor in treatment outcome. My warm, approachable, and interactive style allows my clients to feel comfortable and understood. This connection is crucial for therapeutic change.
My integrated approach is most influenced by the following:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy:
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) emphasizes the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Decades of research has found that if you can change the way you think about a situation, you can change the way you feel about it. Thus, the CBT therapist works with the client to challenge maladaptive thinking patterns in order to reduce negative emotions and behaviors. CBT also emphasizes specific behavioral changes that clients can make to reduce symptoms and improve well-being.
Psychodynamic Therapy:
Psychodynamic therapy is a more traditional, insight-oriented form of treatment. The emphasis is on understanding the origin of emotional distress and gaining awareness of how our internal (often unconscious) conflicts play out in our lives. In psychodynamic therapy, one’s past, especially early family relationships, are explored in order to understand how these dynamics influence the client’s current life/relationships. The therapist helps the client to process difficult feelings by allowing their expression in a supportive environment, by putting words to feelings, and by providing interpretations of the causes of negative emotions.
Meditation / Mindfulness:
Meditation is an ancient tradition of calming the mind and body to experience a greater sense of inner tranquility. Mindfulness is a form of meditation in which one learns to focus attention on one thing, fully present in the moment. In the last few decades, research on meditation/mindfulness has exploded. There is scientific evidence that meditation/mindfulness can help with everything from lowering stress/depression levels to improving grades to sleeping better. Thankfully, you do not need to become a Buddhist or Yogi to derive the benefits of meditation. There are simple practices that you can incorporate into your daily life that will help you to let go of the “clutter” in your mind and achieve a calmer way of life.
Positive Psychology:
The field of psychology has traditionally focused on treating psychiatric illness. Positive psychology is one of the newest branches of psychology to emerge, and the research in this area examines how people can live happy, fulfilling, prosperous lives. Studies suggest that sometimes even small changes can yield significant results. For example, expressing gratitude on a regular basis leads to better physical health, optimism, progress toward goals, and well-being. In the field of positive psychology the goal is not simply to decrease the “bad stuff,” but to “grow the good.” A special emphasis is placed on identifying and expanding the client’s strengths to build mastery, resilience, and a sense of purpose.
White Plains Psychologist- Dr. Juliet Glinski
Dr. Juliet Glinski, a therapist in White Plains, provides therapeutic services for adults and adolescents. Her private psychotherapy practice is located in Westchester County.