GREG ARATA, LMFT

Discovery of the Authentic Self through strengths

I believe that we all have the resources within us to heal, and yet sometimes we need a little help. The right connection between a therapist/client can help start that healing. Maybe your teenager is sullen and isolated. Maybe you are in love and scared to be truly seen by another. Maybe there’s an angry side of you that your family doesn’t understand and a vulnerable side that is too scary to feel. Together we can work on realizing your strengths, healthy coping skills, and developing a kinder stance towards yourself.

I specialize in the treatment of high functioning, perfectionist, anxious men to help them "drop in" and forge deeper connections with others.

My primary theoretical orientation is Person-centered also utilizing:

TRM (Trauma Resilience Model)

behavioral therapy

gestalt therapy

attachment theory

interpersonal neurobiology

positive psychology

family systems

For more information on any of above approaches, please don't hesitate to ask.

THE SECOND ARROW

The possibility of choice

The first arrow (a challenge or stressor in our everyday life) is unavoidable. The second arrow, per the Buddhist proverb, is the self inflicted wound. We say: why me? I guess I deserved that. I'm unloveable after all. One way therapy can work is to foster compassion within ourselves so that we stop taking aim with that second arrow. And if we unleash it? We can choose to be kind to ourselves and say: I'll catch it next time.