Philosophy

In my work with lawyers I recognized that lawyers are unforgiving to themselves and that they sometimes lack perspective about challenges they face and the challenges facing others. Often by simply adding to their knowledge base, providing insight, and gaining perspective, they can move forward. Some issues require additional focus.

Having spent several meaningful years working directly with lawyers in crisis it has been my experience that lawyers are immediately at ease when working with a lawyer counsellor who knows the legal culture. They know that to some extent I understand how they are wired and that we each share a similar outlook and perspective.

Recurring Themes for Lawyers

I can help lawyers facing challenges and obstacles by providing a safe environment in which to share their concerns. By providing perspective to legal professionals about their current problems and helping them become more aware of many of the circumstances surrounding their problems and issues from their past they can gain crucial insight and a degree of emotional intelligence. Fears of failure and perfectionism often lead to an imbalance in living which negatively impact overall health. I can help identify problem patterns and negative automatic thoughts that lead to anxiety and depression and substance abuse. I can identify strengths and guide legal professionals if necessary to intensive treatment programs. I can help underscore the need for professionals to adopt healthy practices (a nutritious diet, exercise, mindfulness) and coping skills to promote health and wellness. I can help lawyers unearth their true values and embrace an authentic and realistic definition of success and generally help the professional move forward. Sessions will vary in length depending on the matters at issue and the modality employed. Some professionals are helped in one to three visits. Others may require more sessions.

Short-term counselling may employ brief and solution focused techniques and motivational interviewing. Longer term counselling may employ cognitive behavioural and/or mindfulness theory.  Narrative and family therapy approaches may also be employed.