Jonathan Ames, Ph.D.
Providing Personal Support
What I Do...
What we do, as Client and Therapist...
Limitations
When practicing as an Internet-based provider, I cannot offer timely responses to crisis situations (though whenever advisable, I establish connections with other healthcare providers working with you). Therefore, in cases where suicide or violence are actively contemplated, where other imminent dangers exist, e.g. abusive relationships, or where there is urgent need for medication and local care, a more immediate provider should be retained. In crisis situations, emergency services should be sought, e.g., protective services and police. I can provide support if needed as such services are located and respond.
- I provide psychotherapy and coaching for individual adults and adolescents, couples, families and groups. Therapeutic approaches I'm familiar with include Psychodynamic, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, CBT, and others, always based on what's best for the client. Also, my backgropund in Buddhist studies is often helpful.
- I also offer clinical supervision, for both new and experienced therapists.
What we do, as Client and Therapist...
- Consider why we're meeting, build trust and understanding regarding your reason for undertaking therapy.
- Look at where you've had difficulties, how you've coped, and how you feel -- and want to feel -- about your life.
- Decide what steps to take, what you'd like to begin and perhaps conclude, and when.
- Consider feelings and emotions you experience, sometimes for the first time, as you express whatever arises.
- There is no regular 'homework', but I may suggest tracking triggers and reactions, dreams, rummaging and journaling, as time and mind permit. Some clients bring forward creative aspects of themselves, which i welcome.
- I focus particularly on later remnants of early trauma, and am indebted to others, e.g., those who have created a rich literature and positive records of treating Complex PTSD.
- I work relationally -- meaning that the relationship we form in working together is often an intrinsic part of the therapy, valuable in understanding the relationships you form with others.
Limitations
When practicing as an Internet-based provider, I cannot offer timely responses to crisis situations (though whenever advisable, I establish connections with other healthcare providers working with you). Therefore, in cases where suicide or violence are actively contemplated, where other imminent dangers exist, e.g. abusive relationships, or where there is urgent need for medication and local care, a more immediate provider should be retained. In crisis situations, emergency services should be sought, e.g., protective services and police. I can provide support if needed as such services are located and respond.