Choosing a Therapist
There's no silver bullet in the psychotherapy world, and there is no perfect therapist who can guarantee you the results you want. There are therapists who are going to suit you better than others, and it is important that you take the time required to find someone who seems right for you. Therapy is teamwork. As you go through the "shopping" process, I encourage you to trust your intuition about who seems able to do three things:
- Connect with you like a real person.
- Understand your concerns (including concerns that you may have about the therapy) and give you fresh and useful perspectives.
- Balance support and challenge to help you succeed in your next steps of growth.
About Cynthia
I practice psychotherapy as a Marriage and Family Therapist in Palo Alto, California. I graduated from Reed College in 1972, and received my Master's Degree from the Institute of Transpersonal Psychology in 1983. I've worked with thousands of clients since beginning practice in 1985. My particular focus has been on the process of adult maturation, with expertise in relationships and sexuality, which are such dynamic arenas for personal growth. The qualities that make me a good therapist are my willingness to take creative risks and my belief that all experience is informational. This gives me a profound faith in the wholeness of life — both within my clients and myself.
I have also facilitated various group experiences, including: large group processes, women's groups, social rituals and trainings for other therapists. I co-authored Passion and Intimacy with David Schnarch, Ph.D. (in Treating Sexual Disorders, edited by Randolph Charlton). I also designed a Winter Solstice Ritual which is presented annually in several communities.
I have also facilitated various group experiences, including: large group processes, women's groups, social rituals and trainings for other therapists. I co-authored Passion and Intimacy with David Schnarch, Ph.D. (in Treating Sexual Disorders, edited by Randolph Charlton). I also designed a Winter Solstice Ritual which is presented annually in several communities.