"If the Desire is Present...Change is Possible!" ATM
Welcome to my Profile! I want to take this opportunity to introduce myself and describe my clinical work and perspectives. I am a Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in Marriage & Family Therapy (LMFT). Although I have accrued a wealth of experience working in Human Services for more than 18 years, my work as a Marriage & Family Therapist is what drives my passion in the following areas of clinical treatment:
I particularly enjoy Couples Counseling, and it comprises approximately 60 - 70% of my work. I welcome all couples, regardless of whether they're married, simply co-habitating, traditional, contemporary, or same-sex. As a therapist who practices from a systems theory perspective, the interventions which I use are effective with most issues that couples encounter. There are several important areas of relationship dynamics that I immediately identify and address: Negative patterns of interaction, "failed" solution attempts, misconceptions / false assumptions, and negotiating "wants and needs". Couples who are committed to improving mutual understanding and communication will attain the results they desire. To facilitate this success, I strive to maintain balanced and fair sessions in which both partners' views are heard.
As in my work with couples, I use proven systemic approaches in the Family Therapy that I do. Contemporary families are extremely diverse in their structures, and I understand this. The problems encountered by traditional, "nuclear families" can be very different from those experienced by single-parent households, "blended" families (i.e., families headed by biological and non-biological parents), LGBT families, or multicultural families. A combination of both personal and professional experience has allowed me to specifically assist these types of families deal with issues ranging from parent-child conflict or ineffective parenting techniques, to parent absenteeism and divorce. My 7 years of work at Henderson Mental Health Center provided me the opportunity to work one-on-one with children ages 8 -18 on issues such as peer pressure, sexual identity, physical and sexual abuse, poor self-esteem, and substance abuse. It's very rewarding for me when, after weeks of committed work, a family reports that they have achieved the success they've desperately wanted!
Certainly not least of all, I wish to describe the Individual Therapy that I practice. It is in this area that I'm able to use the eclectic accumulation of experience from my work in Human Services. In addition to systemic approaches, I use Mindfulness techniques to assist individuals struggling with various issues such as: depression, anxiety, painful breakups, work-related problems, environmental stressors, and more.
Being able to rely on training from my numerous years of working in coporate administration and management has allowed me to assist people in surviving workplace "politics" and protecting their interests. Workplace issues are usually rectifiable through use of E.A.P. Counseling. I am an Employee Assistance Program (E.A.P.) provider for several insurance companies who encourage use of this service. These benefits are free! Often, people don't use this service simply because they are unaware that their company offers it. If you plan to use your health benfits, I can inquire with your insurance carrier to determine if E.A.P. benefits exist. Also, E.A.P. benefit information should be posted thoughout the workplace. Individuals may call the toll-free number to inquire about this service.
In the area of sexuality, I have extensive clinical experience addressing LGBT issues: HIV/AIDS-related concerns, domestic violence, "coming-out", dating, poor self-esteem or internalized homophobia, and substance abuse. My 5 years with the Philadelphia AIDS Task Force (now known as the Mazzoni Clinic) have proven to be an asset when I have the opportunity to counsel individuals specifically on disclosure issues, serodiscordant relationships, and HIV/AIDS psychoeducation. Couples and individuals who have felt awkward or uncomfortable when seeking services in the past, should expect a warm and welcoming environment in my office!
I look forward to the opportunity to work with You and/or Your Family!
Hago citas en español para personas que no se sientan cómodas hablando en inglés.
For more information about my background, credentials, and services, please see below:
Alonso's second language is Spanish and he conducts therapy in such. His extensive personal and professional experience in multiculturalism is evident in his clinical approach. Alonso has been licensed in Florida since 2002 (MT 1960) and is a Qualified Supervisor for MFT and MHC Registered Interns. He is also a Clinical Member of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT). Alonso obtained a B.S. in Business Management / Minor in French from Penn State University (1986), and obtained his M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy from Nova Southeastern University (1999).
To view Alonso's additional profile, click on the following link:
