Randy Cheek, MFT

Psychotherapy & Couples Therapy

Over the years I have had extensive training and consultation as a therapist. I have studied psychoanalytic approaches to therapy as well as Jungian therapy, hypnosis and later the Narrative Approach to therapy. I have also participated in training programs in family systems therapy including participation in a three-year research program on family therapy. Later I joined a supervision group lead by Steve Gilligan, PhD. He utilizes hypnotic trance states to allow clients to develop a deeper understanding of their feelings and a deeper presence in therapy. With my experience I am able to utilize a wide range of skills so I may be specific in selecting an approach that is right for each client.

Each person coming into therapy brings in their own unique story of their life. My role as a therapist is to understand that story and to provide a safe place for the story to become present. Together my client and I gain new insights into their story and its impact on their life - past, present and future. Through the interactive process of this therapy clients can create the space to be present with the narrative of their life. I offer a form of therapy that will encourage the exploration of the non-dominant story. This approach will encourage you to get in touch with feelings and experiences that are often overlooked or causing conflict.

A client's journey of change begins with looking at this website and continues with the first phone call to a therapist. This journey is a life long process of growing and letting go of old habits, patterns, ways of relating - both to yourself and others.

As an adjunct to therapy I encourage clients to participate in yoga, tai chi, Qi Gong or other forms of bodywork. This integration of mind and bodywork will facilitate a deeper understanding of the insights from therapy.

For twenty-five years I have offered couples therapy to clients wanting to explore the viability of their relationship. Initially my work was focused on communication styles. I then began exploring family of origin dynamics that influenced mate selection. For the past few years I have focused on the work of John Gottman, PhD. Gottman believes couples therapy should be a structured, goal-oriented, scientifically based approach to improving relationships. He suggests it is essential for relationships to be successful couples must focus on the issues below.

  • Increase respect, affection, and closeness
  • Break through and resolve conflict when you feel stuck
  • Generate greater understanding between you and your partner
  • Keep conflict discussions calm Maintain improvements in your relationship

 

Iencourage couples to begin this exploration process early in their relationship rather than waiting for difficulties to arise. When couples can act in a proactive manner they can work through relationship difficulties without having to deal with crises. Couples experience developmental stages that are necessary to complete to develop a mature lasting relationship. Understanding these stages will allow couples to anticipate changes that naturally occur in all relationships. I find many couples experience conflict over issues related to parenting, values, expectations, and goals. These are topics couples must learn to discuss to develop a deeper understanding of their partner beliefs. I use my experience as a therapist and mediator to help couples in having these difficult conversations.

I bring a family practice model to working with couples. Just as you see your family doctor on an as needed basis, couples may return to counseling to address issues that may surface in their relationship. I have many couples who return periodically for a relationship tune-up.

For more information:

The Gottman Institute
Stephen Gilligan, Ph.D.
The Milton H. Erickson Foundation 

I bring a family practice model to working with couples. Just as you see your family doctor on an as needed basis, couples may return to counseling to address issues that may surface in their relationship. I have many couples who return periodically for a relationship tune-up.