Ben Meyer LPC in Arizona, Ohio

From a psychoanalytic approach, I follow the models set forth by Jacques Lacan. He takes an additional step past Freud and recognizes the interplay of language and culture as reflections of our behavior that often go unnoticed. In bringing out some of these nuanced influences, a person can become much more aware of why they act and think the way they do.

From a psychodynamic approach, the Oedipus complex is an important influence in our early childhood and our lack of total fulfillment creates conflict and complexity as we grow. From there, we can easily get lost in our attempts at overcompensation. Freud understands the defense mechanisms that people employ to maintain stability. There are many. I can help you find your way out of this maze, or at least a means to accept it's complexity, so as to feel more empowered and free.

Emotionally focused therapy recognizes the emotions we show are often times protective emotions which hide our true feelings. By communicating more deeply, we can acknowledge some of these aspects and although it may take additional courage by being vulnerable, it helps our relationships obtain the right type of oxygen in order to survive.

I have a way of approaching anxiety which is holistic and practical. I'm convinced I can help you understand how to manage anxiety so that you can overcome it more easily. It does not have to be something you battle with every day. Our bodies have an intelligence we need to lean into-- rather than away from-- in order to optimize our health.

We are the product of our environments. If your childhood environment was harsh or unfeeling, you will likely choose a partner who evokes similar feelings inside of you. If these are emotions are creating patterns that are unhealthy, we need to break the cycle and help you see how to empower yourself to do just that.

I can appreciate the historical value of dominance and the changing systematic features where men are having more difficulty managing their place in the world. I work from a holistic perspective to try to understand how balancing emotional and intellectual health can be accomplished-- despite these social influences. Unless you are aligned emotionally and intellectually, you will struggle in life and in your relationships. I like to think I can help you understand these components.