Welcome to Cindy Matthes-Loy, PhD, LCSW

Psychotherapy is a process that allows an individual to explore his or her own life. The purpose of this exploration can be to problem-solve, gain insight or to appreciate one’s own talents or uniqueness. Some view it as a way to make necessary changes in order to make life more satisfying or functional. Others see psychotherapy as a means of adaptation to, or acceptance of difficult circumstances. Striking a balance between what to change and what to accept in one’s life is a common theme in psychotherapy.

Recovery is often a goal in this process. When an individual has been through loss, harm, or rapid change, recovery gives one a sense of reorientation and safety. The road to recovery can be adventurous, daunting, exciting or just hard work. A therapist serves as a guide along the way.

Trauma in life is at times unavoidable and therapy can help the healing process to occur more quickly. Techniques that allow greater access to the whole person expedite the process. When credence is only given to the conscious mind, we are missing out on over 90% of what actually causes us to behave, think and feel the way we do. Therapy that allows an individual to have access to the ‘underground current’ of the Mind allows for better understanding, acceptance and/or as a solid basis for change. For example, fear that lingers long after the traumatic experience has passed can torment an individual for many years. Sadness and anger can also cling to someone in ways that decrease his or her ability to enjoy or function well in life. Addressing the whole Mind allows for an individual to see more clearly and allows for healing and growth.

Addictions are patterns in life that are used repeatedly and often unconsciously. When a compulsive dependence upon a substance, behavior or a person becomes unhealthy, therapy helps make change possible. The therapist can help to identify an individual’s patterns, triggers, pitfalls to avoid and sources of strength.

No matter what brings someone to therapy, everyone has a context that is important to recognize. An individual’s personality, family, culture, faith and specific talents have much to do with the path of recovery that is employed. Each person brings with them tools that will help them and the therapist’s job is help find the best way to use these tools. The experience can be difficult and wonderful all at once, with outcomes that often exceed the expectations of the presenting individual.