Matthew Joslin, LMHC
Matthew Joslin’s Therapist Disclosure Statement <<< (Clickable)
People seek out therapy for a variety of reasons, typically because they want to see some form of change or growth in their lives. Everyone experiences some form of pain or hardship throughout their lives and no one is exempt from the human experience of suffering. Our suffering can provide challenges in our ability to connect with others and ourselves and can leave us with symptoms we seek to change (i.e. depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, codependency and countless others). Therapy is about creating a mutual, unbiased, collaborative relationship that can help you understand yourself and accept yourself fully for who you are.
Whatever you are struggling with, typically there are deep-seated reasons for their existence. Chances are, at some point, the struggles you are dealing with actually served a very helpful purpose of providing a much needed sense of safety and security. Through intimately getting to know these parts of you that have experienced hurt, they will have less control over you and you will begin to feel more connected to your true Self.
Research shows that most of the change seen in clients throughout therapy is closely tied to the strength of the bond between therapist and client. Creating such a relationship requires time and effort for both parties and may be uncomfortable at times because it can bring up intense emotions and uncomfortable feelings. Simply put, therapy may not always be a fun experience filled with bright lights and unicorns, and yet it has the potential to change lives, especially when done with a therapist who cares and shows up authentically.
My therapeutic style is grounded in a client-centered approach, attachment theory, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and narrative therapy, all while working from a trauma informed lens. Above all, I work to get to know you as an individual, knowing that you are unique, and I adapt my approach to best fit your needs as my client. I also enjoy incorporating humor into sessions because laughter is, at times, the best medicine.
In my free time, I enjoy reading a good book, drinking a good cup of coffee, exploring the outdoors, and spending time with friends on the coast.
Specialties and areas of focus
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Grief/Loss
- Trauma
- Self-Esteem
- Relationship Issues
- Women
- Men
- Co-Dependency
- Anger
Q&A with Matthew
1.) Some therapists are more comfortable addressing the immediate problem, while others want to focus on the deeper issue. Which are you?
While I prefer focusing on the deeper issue at hand, sometimes people just need a break from their symptoms. Some people may want a “quick fix” to their symptoms and I am comfortable providing tools and coping mechanisms to address the immediate problem. However, sometimes dealing with the immediate problem can feel like placing a band-aid over a bullet wound and the underlying issue needs to be addressed. Whatever the case, I feel comfortable with both and recognize the importance of diving into the deeper issue at hand.
2.) Do you tend to lead the session, or follow my lead?
Coming from a client-centered approach, I believe in client autonomy and for the client to guide sessions. After all, you know yourself best and know your needs for therapy. However, there are times where you may not know where to take therapy or it may be overwhelming/daunting to try to find a place to start. In these situations, I feel comfortable leading sessions and asking probing questions to start the discussion.
3.) What are your strengths as a therapist?
My strengths as a therapist are building rapport and trust with clients through providing a safe and judgment free zone. I also work to show up as my truest Self which enables you to show up as your truest Self. Additionally, I have engaged in my own personal therapy and have put in lots of time and effort to heal from my own trauma and personal challenges which allows me to accompany others on their own journey.
4.) If you had one superpower, what would it be and why?
My superpower of choice would be to fly because I could travel anywhere at the drop of a hat.
5.) What makes you laugh?
I love dry humor, witty humor, and sarcasm. I love stand -up comedy and mockumentary tv shows (my current favorite is Abbott Elementary).
6.) Who would you have dinner with, dead or alive?
If I could have dinner with anyone, it would be bell hooks because her writing has deeply impacted my life.