Your therapist
For support with
Relationship issues
Persistent doubts or conflict
Feelings of isolation or loneliness
Issues with communication and connection
Sexual challenges
Navigating structure (poly, open, monogamous, etc.)
Life transitions
Coming out to friends & family about sexuality or gender
Career changes
Adjustment to or from family life
Lost connection with values & vision
Depression
Loss of motivation, joy, direction, purpose
Irritability, persistent negativity
Sense of disempowerment
Anxiety
Incessant worry
Perfectionism
Social anxiety
Debilitating concerns about how others see you
Gabriel Bernier, MA, LPC, NCC
My approach to counseling
We are wired for connection; a lot of the work of therapy is done through the relationship between the client and counselor. With a solid relationship in place, we can safely explore the beliefs and narratives that drive your interpretations of events in your life. We’ll look at the way those beliefs impact your emotions and mood, and the function (often indirect, always unconscious) that these beliefs hold in your life. Once you’re aware of the stories, you can begin to choose whether or not you want to believe them, and begin to shape your stories around beliefs that support you moving forward.
“A wiser view requires a wider lens.” - Gabor Maté, MD
If you choose to work with me, you can count on me to support you in uncovering obstacles, zeroing in on what you want, and staying true to yourself in seeing them through. I mostly use a blend of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Reality Therapy in a client-centered approach.
What does this look like?
You’ll get clear, honest feedback delivered with kindness and caring
We’ll explore your underlying beliefs about yourself, the world, and your place in it
We’ll look at the needs you’re meeting and those you’re not meeting and how you go about getting your needs met
We might do some visioning and set some goals
I’ll support you in writing a new narrative about your life
My interpersonal style tends to be “folksy,” as opposed to a more “clinical” style you might find in some therapists. My style won’t work for everyone, but neither will a clinical style. Your fit with your therapist is critical. The best place to begin is with a phone call.
I encourage you to call me at 970-426-5859 and we can see if there’s a fit.