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INDIVIDUAL PSYCHOTHERAPY

LET'S TALK
One-on-one psychotherapy is the most common request in my practice. The word “individual” is key in understanding the way I approach therapy. The relationship between my clients and me is of utmost importance in psychotherapy. Clients needs to feel that there is a real person sitting in the room with them, who not only has the education and skills to assist them, but who is also willing to participate in the recovery process with them. I take the time necessary to understand my clients’ histories, their personal life circumstances, and their clinical issues in order to collaboratively develop a treatment plan that feels appropriate for the client. It is due to this approach my clients have very different treatment experiences from each other and varying lengths of treatment. It may not be possible to determine in the beginning how long any one person’s treatment will take but I do engage in frequent conversations with my clients to evaluate their progress in treatment and utilize creative strategies to assist clients in meeting their goals in a timely manner.  I offer an integrative approach to psychotherapy, utilizing a number of therapeutic orientations and techniques which allows for a more individualized experience for the clients. These include cognitive-behavioral therapy, interpersonal psychotherapy, psychodynamic therapy, somatic experiencing, dialectical behavior therapy and schema therapy. 
INDIVIDUAL PSYCHOTHERAPY

Dr. Boyers is known for treating complex clients who may have not achieved full recovery in other settings.  These clients, who often have significant histories of treatment, typically report that it is the strength and honesty of our therapeutic relationship that allows them to make the changes necessary to live a fuller and more gratifying life.

In certain cases, we may find that professionals from other disciplines may offer additional expertise that helps support my client’s treatment goals.  I may also help the client establish a treatment team in the community and I am actively involved in coordinating the care with these other professionals. 

WHO I HELP

I work with adolescents (age 13+) and adults who have a variety of diagnoses, goals, or needs.  These include:

  • Eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, orthorexia, compulsive exercise, ARFID and selective eating)
  • Weight-related issues (chronic or frustrated dieters, emotional eaters, long term weight management)
  • Body Dysmorphic Disorder and Body Image Concerns
  • Support and treatment for family members of those who struggle with eating disorders or addictions
  • Mood disorders (depression, bipolar I or II, dysthymia)
  • Trauma resolution
  • Anxiety disorders (OCD, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Phobias)
  • Relationship Issues and Communication (marital, family, or work-related)
  • Parenting challenges
  • Divorce (recovering from, coping with, growing from, parenting or custody related issues)
  • Medical Psychology (coping with a chronic illness, health behaviors)
  • Stress Management skills
  • Life transitions, especially for young adults (college and post-college adjustment)
  • Substance abuse and addiction (current and for those who have recently completed residential treatment)
AREAS OF SPECIALTY
EATING DISORDERS

I have extensive experience in the treatment of all types of eating disorders and weight-related issues.  Not only have I treated a multitude of clients with all types of eating disorders in my private practice, but also I have worked at both the Renfrew Center and the Oliver Pyatt Center and have treated patients and their families at every level of care. As Director of Training and Director of Adolescent Services for Oliver Pyatt Centers and Clementine, I have a deep understanding of what is required of an eating disorder specialist and of the complexity of treatment. Understanding the specific needs of clients who require a higher level of care or who are transitioning out of a residential program is essential so that realistic and appropriate goals can be set. 

I also work with clients who are experiencing issues related to their eating who may not meet criteria for a formal eating disorder.  Helping clients free themselves of the food or weight related “rules and restrictions” that impair their quality of life and prevent them from fully experiencing their lives is among the most satisfying work I have the privilege to do.

Additionally, there are some clients who struggle to eat normally who are not preoccupied with losing weight or perfecting their appearance. These clients are generally viewed by others to be “picky eaters” or have been labelled “selective eaters” by other professionals.  Often times, these clients are frustrated by their inability to eat a variety of foods because it affects their ability to enjoy outings with others, their nutritional needs cannot be fully met, they may feel embarrassed by the way they eat, or because others are concerned about the way they eat.  There are several reasons why this develops and it is important to work not only with the client but also the family in order to support the client in expanding their food choices.  In some cases, I may also refer these clients for more extensive evaluations to get a more holistic picture of the factors that may be contributing to this problem. Read about the different types of eating disorders

MOOD DISORDERS

I have a special passion for working with individuals who struggle with mood disorders. With mood disorders, I tend to use more cognitive-behavioral strategies with a focus on fully understanding and coping skills for the signs and symptoms of a mood episode so that clients feel fully capable of caring for themselves independently.  A number of my clients have required hospitalization for their mood disorder and I have relationships with resources throughout the country to help them feel and function better.

ANXIETY

I have worked with hundreds of clients who suffer with anxiety of all kinds, including panic attacks, generalized anxiety disorder, phobias, post-traumatic stress disorder, social anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder. and preoccupation with thoughts of worry or fear.  As my client, you will learn a number of practical skills to help you reduce the physiological arousal that comes with anxiety along with cognitive and behavioral coping skills to help you reduce the repetitive, intrusive thoughts. As we develop your treatment, it is likely that you will also be given therapeutic assignments to work on in between sessions to practice these newly learned skills.

ADDICTION

I also have expertise in working with addiction and helping people whose compulsive behaviors have had negative consequences on their lives, their families, or their employment.  This does not just include substance abuse, but also gambling, sex, exercise, and smoking.  I can help you learn new behaviors and strategies that will help you live a more stable and peaceful life.

What’s next? We understand what you’re going through, Dr. Amy Boyers is a top eating disorder and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT therapy) psychologist Miami ready to help you. She treats patients dealing with: Binge eating, bulimia, anorexia, compulsive eating, anxiety, depress, mood disorders, and many others. Schedule a consultation so that we can learn more about you and your needs. Or call us at 786.235.9000


LET’S TALK



Dr. Boyers is currently available for second opinions and consultations only. She is not available to take on therapy cases at this time but is willing to provide a consultation and help you find an appropriate team or resources in the community.

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