FAQS
Does one need to be a "head case" to seek Coaching or Counseling?
NO. Elite performers such as Tiger Woods and Olympic athletes have helped to make this focus on the mental game the norm in competition. And, improving one's mental skills is not simply a by-product of general athletic training or experience -- it takes additional practice. Tim doesn't view anybody as a "head case." It takes courage to seek assistance.
What is the format of this work?
This depends on what you are looking for. Coaching can be done in one-on-one consultation or in a group workshop format. One-on-one consultation will typically involve: clarifying your goals, collaboratively assessing strengths and growth areas, developing a game plan to achieve your goals, and continuing to help you monitor and adjust your plan. Tim is also very open to delivering free introductory workshops to teams and organizations in the area who are interested in learning more.
Who should seek Counseling or Therapy?
Anyone can benefit. Thankfully- stigma around therapy in our culture seems to be fading. That's what allows cartoons like this one to really be a "joke."Who knows if it is because of television depictions such as Sopranos or because of other factors. Either way, it is a good thing. Tim appreciates the courage it takes to seek help and he makes it a priority to reduce stigma and make this process feel safe.
What is Biofeedback?
Tim uses biofeedback as an adjunct training tool or treatment with some clients. He often describes it as being like tuning into a muscle you didn't know you had. The Association for Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback describes biofeedback as "a process that enables an individual to learn how to change physiological activity for the purposes of improving health and performance. Precise instruments measure physiological activity such as brainwaves, heart function, breathing, muscle activity, and skin temperature. These instruments rapidly and accurately "feed back" information to the user. The presentation of this information — often in conjunction with changes in thinking, emotions, and behavior — supports desired physiological changes. Over time, these changes can endure without continued use of an instrument."
Are these services confidential?
YES. Both Counseling/Therapy and Mental Skills Coaching are completely confidential. Tim will discuss specific limits of confidentiality with you, but they include situations when clients plan to harm themselves or others, and situations of abuse with vulnerable people (elderly, minors, disabled). When these kinds of situations arise, Tim tries to work with clients to assist them in dealing with whatever matter directly. The other exception is if you decide you want Tim to be in contact with someone such as a previous therapist or a coach.
My friend or loved one could benefit from Therapy. How should I suggest it?
It is hard to tell someone the best manner in which they can suggest therapy to a friend. Doing so in a manner that implies genuine concern, and that destigmatizes therapy, can often be helpful. Friends may or may not be receptive, and this model of change may help illuminate why. Keep in mind that it can sometimes be hard to care for other people who need support. Supporters are also wise to engage in therapy and other forms of self-care.
Do you use any Assessments?
While Tim does have training with many kinds of psychological assessment, he approaches this carefully, with two priorities in mind:
1) Tim sometimes uses a mental skills assessments and psychophysiological assessments as part of the mental skills coaching process. Inclusion is time/cost effective and designed to facilitate good dialogue.
2) For any kind of diagnostic purposes (mental health or performance), Tim has a strong belief that assessments should be "psychometrically sound" with validity and reliability studies in peer reviewed journals. If you are thinking of working with someone who relies on assessments, be sure to ask if there is published research that documents its psychometrics.
