My work with clients is heavily influenced by "Client-Centered," "Cognitive-Behavioral" and "Family Systems Theory."  The following is my interpretation of these theories and I am happy to provide more in depth handouts describing these theories upon request.

"Client-Centered Therapy" focuses on building a trusting and respectful relationship with clients.  The therapist approaches the client from a perspective that "the client knows what is best for them" and the therapist's job is to creating a safe environment for conflict resolution to take place.  Once a safe environment has been created, the client can begin to examine fears, confusion, concerns, and/or frustrations.  The therapist's skills in "Reflective Listening" and using "Motivational Interviewing" techniques makes this type of therapy useful for many clients.

"Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy" in its basic form postulates that individuals act based on what they think.  In other words, if a client believes they are a "bad" person, their life choices will likely reflect this belief system creating additional problems for people and perpetuating a cycle of despair.  The "Cognitive-Behavioral" therapist's job is to challenge the client to consider alternative ways of perceiving problem areas.  The assumption is that clients will begin to change how they respond to fears, confusion, concerns, and/ or frustrations when their perceptions change. 

"Family Systems Theory" is based on the premise that a client's behavior impacts others around them and visa versa.  Sometimes the end result of these roles can be frustrating for all participants leading to dissatisfaction in relationships.  Most clients are unaware of their roles making it difficult to break patterns of communication and interaction with others that are not helpful.   The therapist's skills in helping clients identify how their roles might be impacting their relationships is helpful in working with couples and families.