My Approach I view counseling as a partnership between the therapist and the client. Like any partnership, the success or failure of the venture depends upon mutual effort. Clients are expected to take a full and active role in defining goals and carrying out treatment plans. I utilize cognitive-behavioral techniques in my practice; however I also borrow from a wide variety of techniques depending on the client and the client's needs. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is based on the idea that our thoughts cause our feelings and behaviors, not external things, like people, situations, and events. Using CBT we can change the way we think to feel and act better even if the situation does not change. Therapy can also lead to greater awareness of patterns in interpersonal relationships and help strengthen those relationships. Psychotherapy is a relationship between you and your therapist, which is devoted to your well being and growth. The main way we achieve the goals of psychotherapy is talking together. For psychotherapy to be effective, it is essential that one feel safe to explore any and all aspects of oneself. To this end, I take an open, empathic and non-judgmental stance, and I attend very carefully to building trust and safety with clients. Some of the reasons you may seek therapy and for which I can help are: Depression General and social anxiety Coping Skills Grief and loss Emotional, physical, and sexual abuse Life transitions (divorce/breakup, new job) Trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) Self Esteem Stress Disordered Eating Your first session (or two) will be conducted in my office where I will gain an understanding of your goals for therapy. These goals become the basis of your treatment plan, which we work on together. Billing and Appointment Information My fee is $45 per hour, due at the beginning of each individual session unless other arrangements have been made. Payment can be made by cash, check or PayPal. In an attempt to make counseling accessible to most people, I offer a sliding scale based on client income. Sessions last for 50 minutes. If you are late, your session will end on time and not run over into the next person's session. In order to avoid being charged for missed appointments, a 24-hour notice of cancellation is required. If I need to re-schedule or am late for our appointment, you will receive additional time or there will be no charge for the missed session time. Connie Starr, MA, LMHCA     216 Billings Ave Cle Elum, WA 509-885-4708     starr.therapy@gmail.com