JOYCE HOFFSPIEGEL, PH.D.
Clinical Psychologist and Psychotherapist

PSYCHOTHERAPY, COUPLES COUNSELING
AND GROUP AND FAMILY THERAPY

I provide a variety of psychotherapy and counseling services in my Palo Alto, (San Francisco South Bay) office. Primarily I work with adult men and women although I occasionally see teenagers in family therapy. During an initial consultation I help my clients clarify their presenting issues and define goals. This allows us to agree upon a treatment modality that makes most sense at that time. Most patients are seen in individual psychotherapy however as we work together, other therapy modalities (couples, family or group work) might be suggested. I am flexible and responsive in either providing these services, myself or referring my clients and their partners and family members to other professionals. Additionally, I work closely with physicians and psychiatric colleagues and make referrals for medication consultations if symptoms greatly undermine my clients' well-being and if one is receptive to this. I offer both short term psychotherapy (up to 20 sessions) as well as more long term work. Most of my clients are seen in weekly sessions although some people require more intensive work during periods of crisis or times of intensive self exploration. Over the years, following the end of therapy many of my clients return for short term work or consultation in order to address new issues or developmental challenges. Most often, long term therapy is not needed for returning clients.

My theoretical orientation is rooted in psychoanalytic, self psychology and existential theory.  I draw upon my background in developmental psychology, psychodynamic and family systems modalities. In my everyday work with clients I am an active therapist who poses astute questions and engages in dialogue aimed at promoting individual insight.  During each session I provide direct feedback that facilitates my clients' ability to use their insights in their actual life activities.

Presenting issues frequently addressed include:

  • Depression and anxiety
  • Anger
  • Trauma (abuse, loss of loved ones, survivors of trauma)
  • Relationship issues ( dealing with love, intimacy, commitment and self-sabotaging defenses)
  • Personality traits (social anxiety, empathy issues, selflessness and low self esteem)
  • Work and professional identity issues (workaholic behaviors; difficulty engaging in leisure activities; a need for better vision, planning and limit setting with colleagues; and difficulties transitioning in and out of the workplace after becoming a parent .)
  • Parenting issues ( Dealing with your children throughout the life span)
  • Leadership issues (Use of power, responsibility, self protection as well as feelings of isolation, loneliness, and new identity issues after reaching one's goals.)
  • Organizational developmental issues

Please feel free to contact me directly to discuss the possibility of our working together.

 

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