Therapeutic Approach
As a counselor my focus is on the present not the past, on solutions not the problem or symptoms. I utilize a Client Centered and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy approach in my counseling practice. I have been Reality Therapy certified by the William Glasser Institute since 1992. As a counseling model, Reality Therapy is applicable to all types of human interaction. It is practical and effective in helping people change. Using Reality Therapy I teach problem solving skills. With the client I create plans for change. My clients learn things they can use immediately.
Choice Theory Psychology
Developed by William Glasser, Choice Theory teaches us that unhappiness is the primary human problem. Choice Theory explains that we choose everything we do. This means that each one of us can control only his own thoughts and actions-not those of others. Falsely, we believe we can control the actions of others, but we can never control their thoughts. As soon as a person is free of us, when he is out of sight, he can do anything he chooses.
Choice Theory teaches us how to reconnect and strengthen a relationship. It explains concepts like our basic needs, our Quality Worlds, Total Behavior, our creativity, and how perceptions shape reality. Choice Theory explains how and why we behave the way we do.
Reality Therapy
- Is built on the ideas of Choice Theory
- Is a proven methodology for change
- Is a tool for gaining effective control of your life
- Provides a model for improving any relationship
- Is delivered through the use of the "WDEP System," developing a plan for change
Counseling
- Persons of all races, gender, sexual orientation
- Individuals, couples, families, groups
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP), counseling and training
- Small and Family-owned businesses: help with relationship conflicts
Ideal Clients for Counseling
- Persons wanting help with a problem relationship
- Anyone wanting to be free from someone else's attempt to control them
- Clients who are motivated, take responsibility, and ready for change
- Clients who see counseling as an investment not an expense
Areas of Focus
- Marriage and family relationship issues
- Relationship issues-straight couples, same sex couples
- Extra-marital affairs
- Persons "coming out" as gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender (GLBT)
- GLBT family issues
- Adult Children of Alcoholics (ACOA)
- Co-Dependency issues-helping families cope with addiction
- Grief and loss
- Divorce Recovery
- Work with teens
Code of Ethics
Being licensed in Indiana as a Mental Health Counselor and as a Clinical Social Worker, National Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor, and as a certified Life Coach, I abide by the Code of Ethics of the following professional organizations:
- American Mental Health Counselors Association
- National Board of Certified Counselors
- National Association of Social Workers (NASW), Indiana Chapter
- International Coach Federation
- The William Glasser Institute
Confidentiality
Confidentiality is maintained at all times except in certain situations when confidentiality does not apply: by court order, in the case of child or elder abuse, and for your own welfare or that of others in serious or life-threatening situations. Otherwise, your rights for confidentiality are protected. Except as noted above, no records are released without your written permission.
Belief Statement
I believe that a better life is possible for most people. My professional ethics do not permit me to make any guarantees. However, if you are serious about wanting a better life, it is never too late to make changes.
Commitment
Don will:
- Be open, direct, and honest with you
- Respect your dignity and integrity as a unique person
- Work with all persons regardless of race, religion, culture, sexual orientation, or gender identity
- Never give up on you and always find a way to work things out