Dr. Eve Fontaine’s Approach

Dr. Julia Messers’s Approach

Dr. Messer uses a Cognitive-Behavioral approach to therapy. This approach is the most heavily researched form of psychotherapy and has been shown to be effective for a wide range of conditions. One branch of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) involves Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills, which focus on emotion regulation, distress tolerance, relationship effectiveness, and mindfulness.

Characteristics of this approach include an emphasis on practical solutions, collaboration, and a focus on problems in living rather than "symptoms." Techniques used in this approach can be adapted to meet an individual's developmental level and are action-oriented, with clear identification of goals and continuous assessment to monitor progress toward those goals. A sample of techniques that Dr. Messer may use include: self monitoring, cognitive restructuring, assertiveness training, social skills training, relaxation, and DBT skills training.

Benefits of Individual Therapy:

Benefits of individual therapy are numerous and unique for each person. However, general benefits are:

• Increased understanding of emotional "triggers"
  
• Improved ability to manage and regulate emotions
• Enhanced interpersonal relationships
• Improved communication skills
• Improved mood
• Decreased anxiety and stress
• Elimination of destructive habits
• Development of healthy coping skills
• Improved problem solving