Between stimulus and response, there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom.”
~ Viktor Frankl
My practice is closed for the time being to new clients. If we have worked together before, I welcome hearing from you. Please give me a call or send an email. Thanks!
Providing individual and couples therapy that is socially distanced but not emotionally distant.
Sessions will be conducted on Zoom. sharileelevine.com 503.888.0558 sharileelevine@aol.com
Life presents us with many challenges. Few of us were taught the skills we need to make our best choices, or to relate warmly and intimately with chosen others. Most of us were not given the tools to be able to take a moment to pause when we become distressed, upset, or caught off guard. No one taught us the skills to be able to choose our best response to a situation facing us. Too often we become reactive rather than responsive, harming ourselves and those we love.
We get stuck, we become anxious or depressed, often hiding our real selves while presenting an image to the world that “looks good”, but does not feel good. In relationships, we begin to suffer and feel disconnected and insecure if we cannot get our partner to respond to us in a caring, connected way. We know there is more: to feel alive and connected to our life and to others, but we aren’t sure how to get there.
I offer therapy for individuals and couples who wish to make changes that are enduring, enlivening and positive.
Regarding you as a whole and unique person, I will do my best to connect with, understand and validate your lived experience. My role is to help you to identify and understand emotional and behavioral patterns that no longer work, and to help you develop new avenues for thriving in your relationship to yourself and others. It is important to me that your efforts be productive and satisfying. I strive to make the process accessible and straightforward in a warm, accepting, and interactive environment in which you can feel comfortable and secure enough to tolerate taking the emotional risks that lead to lasting change. Whether you are an experienced therapy client or new to the process, I am happy to answer any questions about how therapy works and how it can benefit you.
I am certified in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy. EFT is a research based therapy which aims to reduce distress in adult relationships, recognizing that trust, flexibility, connection and safety rely upon secure attachments to important people. When couples feel close, they are more able to solve concrete difficulties and to collaborate effectively on solutions. I use EFT concepts and tools in my practice, and my work with couples is also informed by other theorists, and 35 years of experience.
The right fit between you and the therapist you choose is vital to maximizing your efforts and gains in therapy. Please call for an initial phone consultation to see if our working together can assist you in your current life challenges and help in reaching your goals. I look forward to speaking with you.