Steve Palmer, LMFT

I believe in the profound value of every human being - and see the growth and development of each of us as something that contributes to the energy of life for all of us. I consider it a real privilege to be part of a field that tries to make people's lives better. I don't believe that a cooker-cutter approach to therapy works. In fact, research shows that most therapy approaches are helpful - but only to some people, some of the time. So, the key to finding therapy useful is to find the right fit for each person's needs at this time in their life. Therapy should be a comfortable relationship where concerns are discussed while we explore the things that can help us move towards our goals. We explore options, try things out, review what is helping (and what is not), and move a little at a time in a brighter direction. I bring twenty-five years of knowledge and experience to this conversation. Let's explore together! I work with clients to set goals that make sense to them and then try to bring the right therapy resources to help them meet those goals. If someone needs a practical solution to a right-now problem, we start there. If someone wants a place to feel seen and heard with compassion while they think their concerns through, we start there. I work hard to keep up with research and scholarship in the field so I can bring the best of what we do know to the people I see. There are many approaches I have found useful for folks over the years, but the main ones are solution-focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic approaches, relationship and family psychology, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and mindfulness and mindfulness-based approaches (meditation, MBSR, DBT). I have been a therapist for over twenty-five years - in private practice, small groups, and large health organizations. I spent ten years as a mental health provider working with medical teams in both primary and specialty medical care. So, I bring a lot of experience from a broad range of client challenges and situations to my work. I am also a life-long spiritual seeker of sorts, but I don't really feel as if I fit into any particular group. I have read and studied Buddhism and Christianity the most. I enjoy conversations about meaning and value and how these things can help us. I am also happy to explore spirituality as a resource if it contributes to energy or meaning for you. I also have six kids and one beautiful grandson - the best teachers in my life :)