Dave Davis

Existential

On one hand we are all unique, on the other, there are universal themes of existence that we all must contend with. These "existential themes" include issues of: - freedom versus responsibility - being and becoming (development) - limitation (mortality / the fact that we can't do everything we might want to do) - the fact that we must make choices now, in ignorance of what the future holds (courage) - our existence is our relationships with others, ourselves, and the world

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

I see CBT as offering a relatively simple conceptual model for understanding the way our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors all interrelate and maintain each other (for better or worse). It is also a method for starting to notice our habits of thought and behavior that we are largely unaware of. Once we develop some awareness of habitual and unhelpful ways we think, we can start to challenge these habits and develop more realistic and healthy ways of experiencing ourselves and the world.

Mindfulness-based

There are several basic goals in mindfulness based treatment, which broadly are: -To train the mind to be able to observe itself and its contents, rather than to feel identical to and totally caught up in the momentary contents of consciousness -To become increasingly able to direct attention toward what one chooses to attend to -To develop a sense of centeredness / equanimity during stressful times

Depression

Depression shows up for people in many different ways and in varying levels of severity. For some depression is experienced as discreet episodes, for others it is a pervasive background condition of life. In general depression responds well to both cognitive behavioral treatment and mindfulness training, and I employ both in my treatment strategy.

Adjustment Disorder

Sometimes life changes unexpectedly and we find ourselves suddenly in a place where our old strategies or self-understandings no longer apply. This may happen when we lose a job, become a parent, or end a relationship. We can experience intense disorientation, confusion, anxiety and depression when these things happen. We will work to understand the meaning of the change and develop strategies to make the best of it, or at least to "adjust" to it in a healthy way.

Self-Esteem

Sometimes we can develop habits of unrealistically negative views of ourselves and our abilities. This low appraisal of ourselves limits us in all sorts of ways; we don't pursue the things that really matter because we believe we aren't up to the task, we don't ask for what we want in relationships. We can work together to develop a realistic vision of where you are and what you want, and then work on the bravery it takes to push for it.

Personal Growth

Feeling stuck? Let's help you reconnect with the process of development. We are meant to continually evolve over our lifetimes, developing our capacities, skills, and wisdom. In order for this evolution to take place, sometimes we need to shed old identities, reimagine or leave unhelpful relationships, and get some new ideas in our heads. Who do you want to be?