Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) emphasizes utilizing compassion to understand yourself and the people around you. It’s a good option for people dealing with shame or self-criticism that causes emotional distress.
Developing compassion for yourself and others requires practice. Practicing self-compassion exercises can help you manage shame and guilt, which can help you develop compassion for the people around you.
Therapy is a journey. Sometimes we get lost along the way, but through honesty, affirmation, and connection, strength can be garnered from diversity and difference. I specialize in working with underserved communities like Latinos, LGBT identities, and those in non-traditional relationships. Healing and growth require vulnerability but commitment to the journey will reward you with insight,...
I believe you are the expert in your own experiences and the therapist's role is to guide you towards accessing the part of yourself that already knows the answer. Therapy is an opportunity to sit in a nurturing environment where anything can be said with acceptance. The gift of therapy provides a chance to hone your coping skills and bolster your resilience in your own time and at your own pac...
Are you wanting to get back on track or maybe find a more satisfying path in your life? Do you feel stuck or want to lift your depression? We can work together to understand the obstacles, as you develop new insights and a clearer path to your happiness. Emphasizing attunement to your needs, I would like to help you discover your potential for change and grow in ways that you feel authentically...
I work with couples, families, individuals, children, teens, and groups who are struggling with communication, family relationships, couple's relationships, infidelity, grief and loss, divorce, family violence, sexual abuse, and sexual assault. Most people struggle in relationships with others at some point in their lives; this is part of being human. We can benefit from talking things through....
Each one of us cannot escape LOSS or CHANGE. Throughout our lives we experience moments that bring us joy, as well as those that test our strength. You need an emotionally safe environment to allow yourself to see different perspectives, to remember your strengths and to change negative thoughts/feelings. I use my "down to Earth" approach and sense of humor to help you feel comfortable in...
I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families. It is my firm belief that individuals are best served when their family environment/system is functioning optimally. It is my goal to help those I serve achieve a deep sense of hope, purpose, and positive self-regard so they can live their best lives possible as they desire. During this challenging time in our community, I offer safe, sec...
My approach to therapy is tailored to what my client needs. Some need structure, some just need a place to process. Whatever it is, I am flexible. I also have a relational approach so if you're someone who may need a good laugh, a non judgmental ear, and a safe place to explore feelings, thoughts, and experiences, I may be a good fit. I have experience working with culturally diverse adults and...
Mel Baum LPC practiced at Comprehensive Psychiatric Associates From 2006 until opening Cognitive Concepts in 2018. Before that he was Director of Partial Hospital Program at Two Rivers Psychiatric Hospital and at worked with adolescents and their families at Preferred Family Healthcare. He treats patients from age 10 to adult with anxiety, ocd, depression, bipolar, adhd, relationship problems,...
My ideal client is a veteran who is separating from the military. He or she is looking for their next step in life. This is daunting and scary. Or, there is some trauma and moral injury causing PTSD. This vet asked for support in finding ways to forgive him or herself, understand the recurring emotions, how to keep them quiet, and ways to move past this obstacle standing in the way of acclimati...
Choosing a therapist is often an overwhelming ordeal. How do you know who to choose? What can you expect from this experience? Being vulnerable emotionally often feels intimidating. At the root of it, regardless of their individual issues, most people are simply struggling to be themselves. The human condition yearns for authenticity.... to be the best we can be, to be known and accepted,...
I offer online/phone sessions. Life will take on new meaning when you begin your personal therapeutic journey. There is hope! Reflecting on yourself in a compassionate and accepting setting will bring inspiration and contentment. You do not have to struggle. Reach out for help....
Listening to you in a safe, supportive space, I can help you through a crisis and find solutions together, whether it’s you, a partner or a child who needs help. I can assist with grief, trauma, relationships, anxiety, depression, addictions, IEP planning, ADHD, learning or behavior problems, among others. You may be feeling hopeless or overwhelmed. I know seeking therapy may not be easy. Takin...
When your substance use has you against the ropes or flat on your back, it's important to have someone in your corner who truly understands your fight. I have over 25 years of experience working with individuals who are struggling with substance use. My strength is my ability to build a healing connection with my patients so we can work together to fight this disease. Together, we will recover...
I support families, adults and elders in navigating difficult times more gracefully. As we rush through our busy lives, we can feel lost and disconnected from our best selves. We can even become so immersed in our negative culture that we feel a deep sense of hopelessness. We can forget that we are smart, strong, tenacious and resilient. I can help you bring a greater sense of purpose and hope...
If you are suffering the damaging effects of anxiety and depression, you might be feeling all alone--isolated, marginalized and unseen. Your personal trauma history, problems with sexual identity, HIV status, drug use and/or addiction, or history of failed relationships might be contributing to feelings of guilt, shame, and hopelessness. How do you move forward, create a purposeful life and...
