My Approach

 

Individuals~Families~Couples

 

A Visit, What to Expect:

 

 

~ Initial Intake Session

The initial session is typically scheduled for 55 minutes, which will include time to address opening paperwork.  In this session, I will work with you to gain a full understanding of your needs.  It is my goal that you leave that day with a strong sense of how I work and, more importantly, of how we can work together.  You may also gain new awareness and possibly some relief through this initial session.

 

After we confirm your appointment for an initial session, I will email you a link to the opening paperwork so you can complete it ahead of time.  Please read over the paperwork carefully and jot down any questions that you may have for me. It is extremely helpful to review and complete all the opening paperwork on your own prior to the initial session (this allows more time for therapy).  Your signature on the forms indicates that you have read and understood the information; it is a binding agreement between us during the course of your therapy.

 

~ Subsequent Sessions

Subsequent sessions are typically scheduled for 55 minutes.  Depending upon your needs, we may schedule a longer or shorter appointment.  Often couples and families (as well as those traveling a distance to attend therapy) find that a longer session better fits their needs.

 

How Many Times Do I Visit?

 

A phrase from a professor has stuck with me over the years, “it’s your job to get yourself out of a job”. This being said, I do have some clients who I have worked with long term.  In these cases, the client has attained his or her original goals for therapy, but appreciates the process of therapy, a supportive relationship, and thought provoking questions.  Therefore, the time-frame for therapy can range from several weeks to several months, or even a couple years.  If and when therapy reaches a point where I as the therapist no longer see positive movement facilitated through sessions, I will encourage clients to consider tapering off therapy.

 

What Is It Like?

 

~ For You

You are unique—your personality, your behaviors, your thought process. Many times we struggle with changing. If you wish to improve yourself or your relationships with others, I can help.

 

~ For You and Your Loved Ones

You are relied upon—individuals are an essential part of a greater whole. For a family, marriage or friendship to thrive, you must recognize and embrace the value of roles—yours and other’s. I can work with you and your loved ones to understand the dynamics of your relationship, and then help each of you work toward growth and happiness.

 

With Work, You Can:

 

 

My Approach, Healing From Within:

 

~ Mind & Body

My approach is holistic. You will benefit from traditional talk therapy—aimed at helping you gain insight and improved coping skills—as well as guided self-examination of other life areas, such as:

 

 

Your Mind

In my work I strive to help people look within themselves to find the answers to their problems. Most often the answers to life’s struggles are personal, and not something a stranger can easily tell another how to fix. Therefore, when working with you, I will help you tap into your own resources; so that when struggles arise, you will know how to handle them on your own–without needing to rely on the support of a therapist.

 

Your Body

Our bodies often clue us in to where our lives are imbalanced. Tension, pain, or discomfort may be a sign that we are not adequately managing the stress of life. This can manifest itself in heart burn, irritable bowel syndrome, high blood pressure, headaches, and many other ailments.

 

Physical health goes hand-in-hand with mental and emotional health. I am happy to help you examine your diet and exercise regimen to identify areas for improvement. If you are not getting the help you need from your primary care physician, I may also encourage you to visit a naturopath/homeopath doctor or a licensed nutritionist for a more precise examination.

 

~ Theoretical Influence

Theories in Marriage and Family Therapy are often large and complex. Below is a list of theories that inform my work; each is linked to a brief, layman terms summary of the specific parts of each theory that I embrace.

 

Ready to Heal From Within?

I invite you to contact me today at grace.layton.mamft@gmail.com. I am happy to offer you a brief phone consultation before beginning therapy; simply include your phone number in your email or call me at 317-622-6544.