John Ballew (he/his)

The first step is to understand your situation - the ways in which anxiety, stress and worry impact your well-being. Then we'll develop a plan to address these concerns. Cognitive behavior therapy and mindfulness-based approaches are effective ways of managing anxiety symptoms. Depending on your concerns, we may also strategize about lifestyle changes needed to help you achieve your goals.

As a gay man myself, I'm aware of how LGBTQ lives are both the same as everyone else...and also in some ways different. Our experiences with family, society, relationships and sexuality are our own, and so are the issues that come with them. Many gay clients prefer talking with a gay counselor because they can expect the counselor to be more familiar with the common themes in our lives. You can expect me to be empathetic and nonjudgmental.

Life transitions - changes in relationship status, health, employment or other areas - can be tricky to navigate. You may find yourself feeling you've lost your way or entered unknown territory. That can cause feelings of anxiety or worry. Or maybe you're partway though a transition, but find yourself stuck and unable to complete the journey. I can help you find your way and develop the tools and resilience you need to live your best life.

Cognitive behavior therapy and mindfulness-based therapy are useful techniques to manage patterns of thinking. They are especially helpful with concerns like stress and anxiety, ruminating thoughts and some issues around sexuality and relationships.

My approach to therapy has always been to look at my clients as people - not as collections of issues or symptoms or mental health problems. We develop throughout our lives; many of the issues people bring to therapy can be understood as opportunities for growth rather than psychiatric problems. I believe it is our nature to grow toward fulfilment. Because of this way of working, the way I approach counseling is strongly influenced by my clients. Our work is a collaboration.