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Getting help can be anxiety-provoking, but that initial fear disappears quickly to be replaced by feelings of hope and encouragement. We have a well-developed "Getting Started" procedure that can help reduce some of your apprehension and answer your questions. Most people relax into their first session, become familiar with online video counseling (telehealth), and immediately feel comfortable with me.  

To get started, go to Helpful Forms and Information and follow the instructions to get started with Dr. Ferguson. 

 

My counseling approaches are designed to address a spectrum of challenges individuals and families face on their journey of self-discovery and growth. From substance use disorder recovery to navigating complex family dynamics, coping with life's transitions, and seeking professional consultation services, each counseling area is tailored to foster well-being, resilience, and personal development. Taking an integrative approach that combines systems theory-informed, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and solution-focused therapy, the focus is often on leveraging individual strengths, learning new skills, and overcoming obstacles. The integrative approach emphasizes clarity, insight, and the development of effective coping strategies, leading to increased self-awareness, self-acceptance, and elevated self-esteem and self-efficacy.
 

Substance Use Disorder

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Online counseling for Substance Use Disorder recovery is a convenient and effective component of long-term efforts to overcome addiction. Online services have advantages over traditional in-person counseling, including increased access to treatment, convenience, privacy, and decreased stigma associated with seeking help. These telehealth services for addiction recovery typically employ the same techniques and principles as traditional in-person counseling. Therapeutic focus in early recovery typically involves:

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• Identification of cues and triggers.

• Development of coping strategies and new skills.

• Building resilience to prevent relapse.

 

The development of a recovery-nurturing lifestyle makes realistic goals for long-term recovery possible. Those most able to benefit from my online substance use disorder counseling are already abstinent from mood-altering drugs (including alcohol), have support systems (e.g., home, job, family, 12-step groups, etc.), and are willing and committed to do the work.  

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Relationship Challenges

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Couples counseling can facilitate the resolution of long-standing problems, strengthen relationships, and rebuild stronger emotional connections between partners. An integrative approach to couples' counseling combines systems theory, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solution-focused treatments, and other strategies to help partners work through issues that strain the relationship and create marital unhappiness. This comprehensive approach typically involves guidance for rebuilding trust, skill development (e.g., communication, problem-solving), and repairing emotional closeness. Understanding the systemic properties in your relationship allows each partner to uncover how their behavior contributes to relationship dynamics, including creating and maintaining circular patterns that can facilitate tension or harmony. The insight into system dynamics allows you to build mutual understanding and respect. 

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The principles and applications of CBT assist in uncovering and challenging unhelpful thoughts and beliefs that foster discord and unhappiness so that healthier communication behavior can replace self-sabotaging habits. Couples learn new skills and find practical ways to re-invest emotionally in the relationship, communicate effectively, solve challenging problems, improve responses to each other's needs, and work as a team to achieve harmony and marital happiness.

 

Psychological Well-being

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Counseling for mental and emotional well-being involves effectively leveraging individual strengths, learning new skills, and overcoming specific obstacles to meet life challenges effectively. Individuals facing challenges to psychological well-being can gain clarity and insight with an integrative approach that harnesses inherent capabilities to learn and apply new skills. This process facilitates the development of effective coping strategies and replacing old behavior patterns with positive outcomes such as increased self-awareness, self-acceptance, and elevated self-esteem. Through a personalized counseling plan, we collaboratively explore the origins of challenges, emphasizing a non-judgmental environment for people to express their thoughts and feelings and practice new skills for psychological resilience and behavioral wellness. Ultimately, the focus is on empowerment, helping you build confidence to become the best version of yourself. 

 

Family Business Issues  

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With their unique dynamics, family businesses can present intricate challenges affecting personal and professional aspects. These challenges often involve navigating boundaries between family and work relationships, managing emotional closeness, and addressing issues that may disrupt the overall effectiveness of the business.

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Individuals engaged in family-owned businesses encounter distinctive hurdles, including blurred boundaries, unclear responsibilities, rigid communication norms, fluctuating emotional closeness, concerns about fairness and equity, and involvement in communication triangles. Despite these challenges, there are rewarding aspects, such as the sense of accomplishment in building a successful business, the close bond formed with loved ones, and the flexibility not typically found elsewhere.

However, balancing maintaining a positive work environment, navigating family dynamics, and managing the business can be overwhelming, leading to stress. The key is to seek support to maintain mental equilibrium and overall quality of life. Drawing on extensive experience in understanding the dynamics of family businesses, I offer education, guidance, and support for emotionally challenging situations such as family conflicts, sibling rivalries, economic changes, and management transitions. Together, we can fine-tune the skills necessary for you to thrive in your family business.

 

Challenging Life Transitions

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Life's transitions bring complex challenges, each unique to the stage one finds themselves in. From the perspective of an emerging adult, launching into independence can be both exhilarating and daunting. Navigating the complexities of newfound responsibilities, career choices, and establishing an identity outside the family unit can be overwhelming.

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For reluctant parents witnessing their children's launch, the shift can be bittersweet, marked by a mix of pride and a sense of loss. Adjusting to an "empty nest" phase may involve redefining roles and rediscovering personal pursuits.

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The advent of parenthood introduces its challenges, from sleepless nights to reshaping priorities. Balancing the demands of raising a family with personal aspirations requires adaptability and effective coping strategies.

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Middle age often brings identity issues as individuals reassess life goals and achievements. The pressure to meet societal expectations and the desire for personal fulfillment may clash, leading to introspection and potential reevaluation of life choices.

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Aging and retirement present a shift in lifestyle and purpose. Coping with changes in physical abilities, evolving social circles, and finding meaning in post-work life are significant challenges during this stage.

Experiencing grief and loss, whether through the death of a loved one, divorce, or other challenging life changes, can be emotionally overwhelming. Navigating these transitions requires support and coping mechanisms to heal and move forward.

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Counseling plays a crucial role in addressing these life changes. It provides a safe environment to explore emotions, navigate uncertainties, and develop coping strategies. By fostering resilience and facilitating self-discovery, counseling helps individuals and families adapt to life's inevitable transitions, promoting mental well-being and a sense of purpose.