About
I am a psychotherapist and contemporary psychoanalyst for individuals and couples. In my time with you, our intention is to change the way your life looks and feels. We will be curious about your thoughts, feelings, environment, and history. We will uncover the conscious and unconscious motivations that shape the choices you make. The aim is increased self-awareness, more comfort with emotions, a better understanding of your relational patterns, a greater sense of ease, and more access to joy. These changes will allow you to expand your sense of what is possible and free you to pursue it.
Psychotherapy and Contemporary Psychoanalysis
My therapeutic approach is attentive to the here-and-now and not driven by formulaic questioning, rigid theoretical frameworks, or diagnostic evaluation. The foundation is a co-created and fluid therapeutic process in which new ways of thinking and being are explored and ultimately integrated into daily life.
I find that change comes through the development of a safe and reflective space in which we uncover the roles, patterns, and identities that constrict us and contribute to difficult emotions. We are able to move through these feelings and free ourselves from such limitations by consciously utilizing our potential to create something new.
Since we all journey through life in the company of others (whether they be partners, family, friends, or co-workers), exploration of relationships becomes central to the therapeutic process. With a better understanding of how these relationships impact our emotional well-being, we can revitalize our lives by engaging those around us in new ways.
Couples Therapy
Couples therapy can be helpful throughout the course of a relationship. It can be utilized at points when difficult decisions are on the table. It can be a resource when there is tension or hurt. It can be used to get out of rigid patterns that keep a relationship from deepening and remaining enlivened. It provides a safe space for talking about unmet needs and disappointments in the area of physical intimacy. It can also be a place to identify and celebrate the positive aspects of a relationship.
Relationships grow and thrive when there is space to reflect on dynamics that exist between the individuals. Effective reflection comes through the creation of a safe environment in which there is mutual empathy. Relational dynamics can be best understood and changed when there is an openness to exploring the way our individual histories shape how we show up in a relationship.
Background
Over the course of 25 years of professional experience, I have had the opportunity to provide care and support to people with a wide range of identities, histories, life circumstances, and needs. I have in-depth experience working with gay men and others from the queer community. Through my work with individuals from immigrant families, I have an understanding of some of the unique issues encountered by those who are bridging cultures. People come looking for help with depression, anxiety, or other symptoms. Some are survivors of abuse and other forms of trauma. Some are trying to overcome addictive habits that were compromising their well-being. Some are dealing with the realities of chronic illness, aging, and loss. In each individual case, I seek to develop a therapeutic relationship in which these particularities can be explored and addressed, creating an opportunity for change, healing, growth, and development.
Training
My approach has been shaped by a wide range of training programs. I'm certified in contemporary psychoanalysis and comprehensive psychotherapy through the National Institute of the Psychotherapies. I'm certified as a Co-Active Coach through the Coaches Training Institute. I have completed coursework in Internal Family Systems through The Center for Self Leaderships.
Education
My educational background includes graduate degrees from Columbia University’s School of Social Work and Union Theological Seminary. I completed my undergraduate studies at Swarthmore College
Contact
Would you like to know more? Whether you are ready to start or are simply gathering information, I am happy to answer any questions you have about me or the process. Call me, email me, or contact me to schedule a consultation appointment.
Copyright © 2018 Aaron Agne, LCSW - All Rights Reserved.