My therapeutic approach is informed by relational, attachment, client centered, and psychodynamic theories. I also utilize Lifespan Integration and EMDR with most of my clients.
Relational therapy involves the client and the therapist building a relationship. Conflicts and patterns of relating will surface in our therapy sessions which are similar to the patterns you are accustomed to in relating to others either in the past or in your current situation. In the therapy relationship, we can begin to unpack these dynamics and begin to change how they occur in a more safe environment.
Psychodynamic, attachment, and object relations theories acknowledge that previous experiences and former attachments shape our personality. Often, unconscious feelings and beliefs about ourselves affect our ability to relate to others and even form attachments now. Looking at dynamics which occurred in one’s first relationships can often shed light on one’s difficulty to form meaningful relationships now.
A client centered treatment approach means that the client brings the agenda and the focus of each session. I will do my work as a therapist, share insights and offer kindness and unconditional positive regard in whatever manner possible. I do not bring expectations to our time together; the space between us is created.
Lifespan integration is a very gentle method that works on a deep neural level to change patterned responses and defense strategies. LI helps people connect unpleasant feelings and dysfunctional patterns with the memories of the past events from which these feelings and strategies originated. Making these connections at a deep level of the body-mind “re-sets” the neural system so that it is more in line with the current life situation, current ego state, biological age, etc.
EMDR has many similarites to LI, they are both more somatic, body focused approaches aiming to facilitate adaptive information processing; ie. when stressful events happen, we utilize our best thought in responding in a more helpful way. Often adaptive processing is blocked when we are triggered and gaining insight around these triggers and “untangling” less adaptive coping mechanisms can decrease conflict and bring more freedom in our lives.
Individual Sessions with Adults and adolescents.
Areas of focus include:
- coping with major life transitions
- anxiety & depression
- coping with chronic, debilitating illness
- addictions
- eating disorders
- relational difficulties
- recovering from sexual, emotional, and physical abuse
Children, Adolescents, and Families
I work with children age 4 and above. I view each client primarily in light of his or her family system and from a psychodynamic standpoint. This means that I may want to work with a client’s parents individually in the beginning or the end of each session. I may work with all family members in the room, or I may just work primarily with the identified client. This all really depends on the age of the client and the nature of why they are seeking counseling.
Areas of focus include
- identity development
- childhood medical trauma
- ADD/ADHD
- school problems (bullying, self esteem)
- abuse histories
- blended families
- coping with divorce
- coping with childhood illness
Sessions with children may involve:
- structured games
- art therapy
- play
Lynn V. Jones, MA LMHC 