Nancy's Counseling Corner

Most marriages and other relationships aren't perfect. Each person brings his or her own ideas, values, opinions and personal history into a relationship, and they don't always match their partner's. Those differences don't necessarily mean your relationship is bound for conflict. In many cases, differences can be complementary - you know the saying about opposites attracting. These differences can also help people understand, respect and accept opposing views and cultures.

The first step is deciding you need to reach out for help. You should look for someone you can trust. Someone who will not only listen to what you're saying, but also hears what you aren't saying. And, most important of all, you should look for someone you can feel comfortable talking to, someone who cares.

I am Nancy Travers, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Therapist. I strive to make you feel safe and comfortable. I strongly believe that to be effective in what I do, there has to be a connection and relationship with my clients.

I focus on the positives and the solutions. Yes, you may be experiencing problems -- problems which may seem like there is no way out. But we work together to focus on positive outcomes so you can live your life feeling good about yourself, your relationships and your future.

It may be that you feel down. Your relationship may not be as healthy as you would like. You may be having trouble sleeping. You may feel lonely or be eating more or less than normal. You may even be having trouble at work or completing day-to-day chores.

My specialty areas include:

• Looking to find the right match: Finding the right partner can be challenging and frustrating. I can teach you the skills that will help you find or maintain a healthy and happy relationship.
• Couples counseling: Struggling with dating, relationships and communication is very common. If it is time to turn your relationship around, I can teach you the skills needed to go from anger and resentment to love and kindness.
• Gay/Lesbian challenges: I have been working in the gay/lesbian community for over 10 years and can teach you the skills you need to be in a successful relationship and deal with your unique challenges.

If you just cannot function, and all seems too much to bear, you may be experiencing depression or anxiety. But don't worry -- you're not alone. As a matter of fact, major depressive disorders affect approximately 14.8 million American adults every year. The good news is that depression and anxiety are treatable and can be prevented.

• Understanding and dealing with depression and anxiety: Although things may seem hopeless, I can help you before depression and anxiety take over and cause unwanted consequences.
• Elderly care counseling: Dealing with an aging or sick loved one often results in difficult and stressful situations for families. I have experience working in the geriatric field and can provide the resources and skills that will help you and those around you better cope with the tough issues of aging.
• Hypnosis: In addition to therapy, you may benefit from hypnosis which can be a powerful tool used to create effective change. I can educate you about the benefits of hypnosis and how it may be able to help you.

You do not have to go through this alone. Call to schedule your appointment for effective counseling today at 949.510.9423 or contact us.