What is Psychotherapy

CompassPsychotherapy is a process in which the patient explores his or her internal processes (e.g., thoughts and feelings) and behaviors (i.e. overt and covert) with the guidance of the psychotherapist. Psychotherapy can be an enjoyable, rewarding, but difficult process as the person in the process changes and learns things about him or herself. Dr. Grant's philosophy is that you get out of psychotherapy what effort and time you are willing to put into it; commitment and dedication is important in the psychotherapeutic process. Metaphorically as your compass, Dr. Grant assists his patients in identifying their own answers to their questions/problems. Dr. Grant firmly believes in the saying that "Life is a journey and only you hold the map." Know that whatever maps you have we will navigate together. If you are new to psychotherapy, check out the following link on 'Psychotherapy' by the Mayo Clinic.

Dr. Grant's Therapeutic Orientation

The therapeutic approach that Dr. Grant tends to favor is that of a psychodynamic orientation. From this perspective, it is important to explore with the patient past relationships and early life experiences and how these relationships and experiences were internalized to affect one's current perceptions of the self, others, and the world. Dr. Grant believes that the past can be very informative, but also believes wholeheartedly in the quote by Soren Kierkegaard that "Life must be understood backwards. But, it must be lived forward." To gain a better understanding of this perspective, the following article by Shedler (2010) on Psychodynamic Psychotherapy highlights the efficacy of psychodynamic psychotherapy and the "seven features" (i.e. processes and techniques) of what sets it apart from other forms of therapy. Check out the following link on a candid blog post from Rune Moelbak, Ph.D. on What is Psychodynamic Psychotherapy.

Depending on the needs of the patient's presenting problems, Dr. Grant integrates problem solving and solution-focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and supportive therapy. He also likes to employ positive psychology with all his patients, which entails highlighting the patient's strengths and exploring those opportunities in life that encourage and edify his or her inner well-being. Importantly, mindfulness-based approaches and deep breathing and relaxation exercises are usually integrated into treatment as needed.

Dr. Grant's Approach To Understanding Others

Dr. Grant views his patients from a biopsychosocial perspective. Meaning, that it is not enough to say that one suffers a mental health problem because of a psychological issue, but rather, it is important to consider the biological as well as the sociological underpinnings to one's current problems. In addition, Dr. Grant understands that the mind can affect the body and the body can affect the mind. So, when our bodies do not feel well our mental health suffers and vice versa; this is referred to as mind-body medicine.
NorthStar Psychological + Consultation Services, LLC
429 E. Vermont Street
Suite 307
Indianapolis, IN 46202
317-572-7847 (ST4R)
Monday 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm & Tuesday through Thursday 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Closed all other days.