Therapy

Making the decision to seek out therapy is a very individual decision. Some people seek therapy due to changes in their lives that have them feeling anxious, depressed, or confused. Others seek assistance for personal growth or to gain more insight into who they are and why they do what they do. Working with a therapist can help you feel supported as you navigate different stages of your life or difficult transitions.  Therapy is a safe way to explore your thoughts and feelings in a non-judgmental environment. We work together to uncover the roots of repetitive patterns which cause you emotional and mental pain and discomfort. Through "talk therapy" you are able to discover your inner strengths.

If you have been in therapy before, you know that my role is to help you move through confusion, pain and difficult patterns that get in the way of the contentment you seek. We determine the goals you wish to work on - my role is partly to find your comfort level and utilize the therapeutic techniques that are the best fit for your situation. Therapy is a collaborative effort.

Cognitive Behavior Therapy 

CBT or Cognitive Behavior Therapy is an integral element in the work I do with clients. Understanding the connection between your thoughts, feelings and behaviors is key to addressing negative self-talk and even lifelong held negative beliefs. Journaling or a thought diary might be part of the work we do together. Assisting you in recognitizing negative thoughts and how they affect your view of yourself as an individual, in relationships and in the world in general is important. 

Couples Work 

When couples seek out therapy it is often due to conflict related to unexpected events, infidelity, illness or differing expectations in the relationship. At the core of the conflict is frequently some level of difficulty communicating with each other - if the focus is on getting your needs met rather than listening to what your partner has to say, your partner's true feelings may be missed. Part of our work together is to learn effective communication tools that allow each of you to feel heard. In this process couples often realize they have individual issues that need to be addressed in order to work on their relationship.  

Stress Reduction

The stress response is activated when we feel overloaded, unable to cope with life, and our nervous systems are in the “fight or flight” mode. By teaching you strategies to relax your body and mind, you can begin to gain control over your body’s response to stressful events and better prepare yourself for each day. Strategies include: visual imagery, art therapy techniques, physiological relaxation, mindfulness instruction, and breathing techniques to elicit the relaxation response. Part of the process of learning these new tools is to also be able to "watch" your thoughts, challenge the negative thoughts that contribute to feeling overwhelmed and actively work to replace them with more realistic and positive thinking patterns.

Your first appointment is waiting for you.

Deborah Carnett ۰ 509 12th Avenue SE, Suite 18 ۰ Olympia, WA 98501  (360) 870-2130