Techniques Used for Counseling

Dr. Eames uses a variety of treatment modalities when working with clients. The treatment style is tailored to each client as everyone has different needs and issues

Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) is a psychotherapy method that is used to treat mood and anxiety disorders. CBT is based on the idea that negative emotions and distorted views of events are caused by maladaptive cognitions, behaviors, beliefs and assumptions. With CBT, techniques are learned to identify and change the maladaptive thoughts and behaviors. The therapy is focused on problems or events that the client is currently facing in their life. Homework plays a large part in the CBT method, with clients completing exercises between sessions to challenge maladaptive cognitions and behaviors.

Psychodynamic Therapy is an approach that addresses the unconscious maladaptive behaviors that people use to protect themselves from schema or core issues that generally develop during the early part of life.

Biofeedback is used as a relaxation technique where the physical signals from the client's body are measured and displayed to optimize relaxation methods. Electrodes are placed on the fingers and wrists to measure heart rate, temperature, and skin resistance. Other sensors are also used to measure breathing rate or muscle tension. Using different breathing and imagery techniques the client can learn to reduce stress and anxiety. A benefit of biofeedback is that subtle changes in the physiology can be measured to reinforce that the body is actually responding to the relaxation techniques.

Meditation and Mindfulness are skills from integrative medicine that have benefits in the mind/body health relationship. Basic instruction in meditation skills is offered for clients who are interested in and may benefit from such a practice.

Medication treatment may be required for some illnesses or conditions. In this case you may be referred to an English speaking physician licensed in Japan who can provide medical care.