Harm reduction psychotherapy is utilized to address substance misuse and other problematic behaviors that undermine your potential for self actualization. Harm reduction favors an integrative approach and incorporates psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral and motivational enhancement approaches that meet you where you are when you enter treatment. Unlike abstinence and other strict behavioral methods that impose treatment objectives, harm reduction is based on principles of collaboration, mutuality, gradualism, and introspection that promote safety, well being, positive change, empowerment, development of coping skills, and insight.
Positive change and empowerment are essential components of our relationship and contribute greatly to self-reflection and increased awareness. The capacity to take an inquisitive position in relation to your self and your behaviors will provide an opportunity to examine and work through behavioral patterns that interfere with happiness. This process entails developing an understanding of how certain events may trigger substance misuse, problematic eating patterns, sexual compulsions, etc. and their likely outcomes. Once the sequential events are identified and the potential outcomes of problematic behaviors are understood, we will work together to establish a course of action that makes most sense in your life. We will explore and develop more effective ways of managing difficult situations and feelings that may include relaxation techniques, positive self talk, communication skills, and other coping skills that work for you.
We will look at the various meanings driving the behaviors and strengthen your capacity for introspection. On going reflection will contribute to increased capability for mindfulness, deepen connections to previously inaccessible material that created the conditions for the problem behaviors, and redirect emotional energy towards life enhancing and self fulfilling goals. You will notice improvements in your ability to cope with stress, alleviate anxiety and depression, enhance positive emotions, minimize disruptive patterns, improve your sense of self and tap into your innate abilities.
The recognition that some behaviors, although initially intended to relieve stress, anxiety, depression and other negative feelings, no longer provide the sought after effect is an important step in the journey towards a rewarding life. I look forward to our collaboration and working towards your objectives.