I can’t say enough good things about working with Dave. The progress I’m finally making is improving my life in ways that I was beginning to think was never going to happen.”
– Client review
Welcome to my Practice: You’re Not Alone
Taking the first step towards therapy can be daunting. I want you to know that you’re not alone. I’m here to help you navigate the complexities of emotional and relational challenges. My approach has been influenced greatly by the compassion of Carl Rogers, the skills of Aaron Beck and the wisdom of Pema Chödrön. I’m also the only Certified Gottman Therapist in the Eugene/Springfield area, and one of only a dozen in the entire state.
Are You Currently Accepting New Clients?
Yes, I am currently welcoming new clients. My practice is open to both individuals and couples who are 18 years and older. I’m committed to providing a supportive and transformative space for all my clients, helping them navigate their unique journeys with empathy and expertise.
Do You Provide In-Person Appointments?
Absolutely! My office is conveniently located at the corner of Willamette Street and West 24th Ave, at 2440 Willamette St., Suite 101-C, in Eugene, Oregon.
In-person therapy sessions offer distinct benefits. They foster a unique therapeutic dynamic through physical presence, enhancing connection and understanding. Face-to-face interactions allow for more nuanced communication, particularly through non-verbal cues. In an era where virtual sessions are common, providing in-person therapy addresses the diverse preferences of clients who may not feel as comfortable or engaged online. Offering this option is a crucial part of my commitment to meet the varied needs of all clients.
To ensure a safe and comfortable environment for in-person sessions, I strictly adhere to COVID-19 safety protocols, including HEPA filtration and fresh air exchange, in line with current county guidelines.
What About Virtual Appointments?
I provide telehealth (Zoom) sessions that offer the same level of effectiveness as in-person consultations. These sessions have been a preferred choice for many of my clients, both locally and from various locations across the globe. This option caters to a diverse range of needs, offering convenience, time-saving benefits, and the flexibility to accommodate different schedules and locations. Whether you’re nearby or in a different time zone, my virtual appointments ensure that quality therapy is accessible to you.
Can My Partner and I Be in Different Locations for Therapy Sessions?
Yes! Thanks to the advancements in telehealth technology, it’s entirely possible and effective for you and your partner to attend couples therapy sessions from different locations. This flexibility ensures that both of you can participate in the sessions, regardless of your physical whereabouts, making therapy more accessible and convenient for your unique circumstances.
What Are Your Qualifications and Experience?
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Gottman Therapist with over 20 years of experience. My background includes working extensively with couples in marital or relationship distress, dealing with recovery from emotional and verbal abuse, and dealing with recover from dysfunctional family dynamics.
What Therapeutic Approaches Do You Use?
A therapeutic approach is a carefully chosen, research-backed path to enhance your mental health and wellness, utilizing proven methods that are far from guesswork, designed to effectively address and improve both individual and relationship challenges. Here’s what I commonly use:
- Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This approach helps you understand how your thoughts affect your feelings and behaviors. It’s like a toolkit for changing negative thought patterns to improve your mood and actions. CBT is practical and solution-focused, making it effective for a wide range of issues.
- Internal Family Systems (IFS): Imagine your mind as a family, with different parts that sometimes conflict. IFS helps you get to know these parts, understand their roles, and learn how to manage them better. This method is great for finding harmony within yourself and addressing internal struggles.
- Gottman Method Couples Therapy: This method is specially designed for couples. It’s like a relationship roadmap, focusing on improving communication, building trust, and deepening intimacy. Based on extensive research, this therapy helps couples understand each other better and grow together.
How Long Does Therapy Take?
The duration of therapy varies as it is highly personalized to each individual’s or couple’s unique challenges and goals. My approach is focused on facilitating meaningful progress efficiently and effectively. On average, clients attend therapy for about 8-12 sessions.
However, the length can vary: some may find that a shorter period meets their needs, while others might benefit from a longer duration, especially in more complex situations. The key is to tailor the process to what works best for you and your specific circumstances. At some point, you’ll be ready to “go out on your own” and we will reduce therapy frequency, and instead transition to maintenance or “check-in” sessions.
What Can I Expect in the First Few Sessions?
In the initial sessions, we’ll explore your goals, background, and what you hope to achieve through therapy, setting the stage for our work together. I prioritize creating a comfortable and safe environment from the start, ensuring you feel at ease to share and engage in the therapy process. This is an important step in your therapeutic journey as it lays the foundation for getting you closer to what you need in order to finally make a difference you’ve been waiting for in your life.
What are Your Rates?
The initial evaluation session is $240 and typically lasts 50-60 minutes. This investment in your mental health is reflective of the value and outcomes of therapy, offering a comprehensive and personalized start to your therapeutic journey.
The evaluation session is more than just a formal introduction; it’s a gateway to your therapeutic journey. It’s designed to be engaging and empowering, setting the foundation for a personalized path that focuses on what you wish to achieve and starting you on the path to meaningful change.
We’ll focus on identifying your goals and aspirations, laying the groundwork to embark on a transformative journey. This session is an opportunity to feel empowered and hopeful, as we collaboratively set the course to navigate the complexities of your experiences and work towards meaningful change.
Do You Offer Sliding Scale Fees or Financial Assistance?
I offer a limited number of sliding scale spots based on financial need. Please feel free to discuss any financial concerns with me, as I’m dedicated to making therapy accessible to those who need it. Inquire about availability and criteria.
Do you Accept Insurance?
While majority of my clients are private pay, I am able to bill PacificSource Health Plans (commercial). For clients with other insurance plans, I can provide a specialized billing statement upon request. This statement is designed for those who wish to use their insurance and can be submitted for reimbursement using your out-of-network benefits.
Can I Schedule for After-Hours & Weekends
Sometimes it’s just not feasible to meet with a therapist during normal working hours. To support this, I reserve a limited number of after-hours and weekend slots at an additional rate of $50. These flexible timings are ideal for those with busy schedules, ensuring therapy fits into your life seamlessly.
What Is Your Cancellation and Rescheduling Policy?
My goal is to provide each client, the attention and focus that they deserve. As a result, I see a limited number of clients, and it is difficult for me to fill missed sessions on short notice. To accommodate this, I require a 48-hour notice for cancellations or rescheduling.
How Do You Handle Confidentiality and Privacy?
Client confidentiality and privacy are paramount in my practice. Besides adhering to strict professional standards, I employ robust digital security measures, especially for telehealth sessions, to ensure your information is always protected.
How Do You Measure Progress in Therapy?
Progress is measured through ongoing dialogue and assessment, focusing on your evolving goals and how you feel about the changes occurring in your life. We will use industry standard methods to actually gauge how well you are feeling and improving in order to make sure that we’re not just spending time “talking about your feelings” without making any real progress. The goal is to move you closer to the version of yourself that you want to become, and this type of regular assessment, keeps both of us accountable.
Can I Contact You Between Sessions if Needed?
I provide a secure client portal where clients can message me for urgent matters between sessions. However, for ongoing discussions, I recommend scheduling a session to ensure comprehensive support.
What Is Your Approach to Cultural and Gender Sensitivity in Therapy?
My approach to therapy is deeply rooted in cultural and gender sensitivity. I recognize and honor the diverse backgrounds and identities of all my clients. This means actively engaging in practices that are not only inclusive but also affirming of different cultural, racial, gender, and sexual identities. I strive to create a therapeutic environment where every individual feels seen, heard, and understood, irrespective of their background.
How Do You Stay Current with Professional Development in Therapy?
Staying current with professional development is a cornerstone of my practice. I am committed to lifelong learning and regularly participate in a variety of professional development activities. This includes attending workshops, seminars, and conferences that focus on the latest developments in therapy and mental health. I also engage in peer consultation and collaboration, which allows me to discuss and refine my therapeutic techniques and strategies with fellow professionals.