Welcome to Little Red Telescope, life unfolded. Your first visit to a new therapist is very important and you may have many questions, so let me start by introducing myself. My name is Courtland McPherson. I received my master’s degree in social work in 2011 from the Rhode Island College School of Social Work. I continued my psychotherapeutic journey after receiving my degree working in a management role overseeing a community mental health clinic in Boston, Massachusetts. During my time at the clinic, I directly saw individuals seeking psychotherapy as well as assisting in the daily clinic operations and organizational growth. I hold a certificate of advanced clinical practice from the Boston College School of Social Work, as well as multiple designations as a practicing supervisor for clinical work. Currently I am working on my doctoral degree in psychodynamic psychotherapy from the Institute of Clinical Social work based in Chicago, Illinois. Here in California, I am a licensed clinical social worker (Lic.# LCSW 73960) where I practice independently helping people unfold their lives!
My approach to treatment is an integrative one harnessing a range of psychodynamic perspectives such as relational theory, self-psychology, developmental theories and neuroscience. I am also trained in cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing and person centered treatment. As a clinical social worker, I bring certain expertise to our collaboration while you bring self-knowledge, the ability to learn from your life experiences and a vision of what you want your life to be. I enjoy working with a diverse range of individuals seeking to improve their emotional, mental and physical wellness.
Participation in therapy can result in a number of benefits to you, including improved interpersonal relationships and resolution of the specific concerns that led you to seek therapy. Working toward these benefits requires effort on your part. Psychotherapy requires your active involvement, honesty, and openness in order to change your thoughts, feelings and/or behavior. I will ask for your feedback and views on your therapy and its progress. Sometimes more than one approach can be helpful.
During the initial evaluation or the course of therapy, remembering unpleasant events, feelings, or thoughts may result in you experiencing considerable discomfort, strong feelings, anxiety, depression, insomnia, etc. I may challenge some of your assumptions or perceptions or propose different ways of thinking about or handling situations that may cause you to feel upset, angry or disappointed. Attempting to resolve issues that brought you into therapy may result in changes that were not originally intended. Psychotherapy may result in decisions to change behaviors, employment, substance use, schooling, housing or relationships. Change can sometimes be quick and easy, but more often it can be gradual and even frustrating. There is no guarantee that psychotherapy will yield positive or intended results.
Some issues we can address together: