John's Counseling Approach

A new client arrived one time with the words, "Here I am - do me!" I explained that, unlike surgery where the patient is a passive recipient of the doctor's services, I treat counseling as a dynamic partnership between my client and myself. Sometimes I need to carry a greater share of the load in the beginning, as when my client is significantly depressed or overwhelmed, and sometimes less. But it is always teamwork.

As we work together, it is my job to carefully observe and ask the right questions. As my client shares openly and honestly, insights begin to come to us both. I have the responsibility to suggest how these various insights and pieces of information fit together, and especially how they tie in with his or her expressed goals, needs or problems. I also have the responsibility to suggest strategies for improvement.

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Ten Things You Will Probably NOT Hear Me Say

Additional information on how John approaches the following issues:

Healing Past Hurts

Overcoming Depression

Couples Counseling

Small Business Relationships

An overview of the kinds of counseling issues that John addresses:

Specialties page

These strategies could involve such things as specific changes in one's way of thinking or perceiving, learning relationship skills, or resolving difficult memories. As my client gives feedback about progress, we continue to work on further insights and refining our approach.

I recognize that it can often be an anxiety producing experience to share openly with someone you do not know well, especially at first. So I place a high priority on making my office a warm and safe environment. I also recognize that many of my clients have experienced difficult relationships in the past, and I believe that a safe, open and honest counseling relationship can itself be a significant part of the healing process.

As I am often asked how I might approach specific problems or needs, I have included links to several examples. You may also wish to consult my specialties page for a cross section of the topics that I work with. Beyond that, please feel free to call (425-821-3944) or email me, John Bachelor, if you have additional questions or if you simply wish to talk directly with me. (There is no charge for a "get acquainted" phone call or email.)

w For further information, to get acquainted or to set up an appointment, call John at 425-821-3944. (There is no charge for the call.)

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