Addiction
Yes, addictions to one or more of the options in today’s world can derail us from our goal to be happy. While enjoying the ‘addiction’ may be the best of minutes, the time after the experience has worn off gets more difficult to endure. In those moments, we may think, ‘I have to stop; this is killing me.’ But then comes the pull – again. And the cycle is on repeat.
Family Life
Home life is rough, and all parties struggle to have any sense of normalcy. Parents are challenged by their adolescents; teens are reluctant to cooperate with their parents because they are certain, ‘No one understands me.’ And the battle lines are drawn.
Daily Life
Sometimes daily life feels off track, and managing and meeting your individual needs gets sidetracked in favor of work or family. It can be hard to know what next steps would help you to realign and move forward. And the status quo continues.
Silence. Listening. Patience.
These are things you will find when you sit with me for a few therapy sessions. Too often it is easy to talk, talk, talk. But who is hearing what is being said? Adolescents are quite skilled at ‘tuning out.’ I know; I was super accomplished at this when I was a teen.
In my therapy sessions, I think it is important to hold the space for the client (adult or adolescent) to examine the ‘self.’ Let me be your mirror into your frustrated being. Let me push you to examine and explore your ‘self.’ The ‘other side’ is well worth the effort.
Therapy with me.
I work with individuals and families in various combinations. Often therapy involves more than one person; it may be a family unit. Someone in the family may start individual therapy; a teen may need ‘someone who understands’; the parents may be struggling to know which way to turn.
I want to lead one, two, all of you to bring your family back together. We will establish a relationship which allows for growth and change in all members. Trust. Respect. Healthy discussions. Boundaries. Imagine a journey by all family members to bring harmony and enjoyment into the family again.
About Me
I have a unique perspective toward working with adolescents, adults and families. I have over 10 years of sobriety. I WAS that young person who ran away from home. I dropped out of school and struggled for decades before finding my way. I have been in therapy myself off and on since I was an adolescent.
As a counselor, I offer a safe, comfortable, and warm space where my clients and I can work in a respectful, collaborative environment. My commitment to you is to walk this journey of self-discovery with ethical and cultural sensitivity – and empathy – as we address substance use disorders and co-occurring disorders.
Credentials:
- Associate of Science Degree in Addictions Counseling
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a Counseling Concentration
- Master of Science in Counseling
My theoretical base is Adlerian Individual psychology. However, I use a variety of therapies to best help my client. I hold the standard of making sure the therapeutic relationship is of utmost importance. I will do my best to ensure my clients have established this relationship, or I will help them find a counselor who can best meet their needs.
In my spare time… I have a flavor for photography. I love animals. My dog Winter and I enjoy walking on the beach and trips to the local dog park, so she can spend time with friends. I am actively involved in my community helping to have an impact.
You no longer must live like this. Let’s change your story; call or email me today.
Client Testimonial
I am writing to provide my highest recommendation of Mr. Chris Wiegenstein as a therapist for adolescents and families.
Chris served as my daughter’s primary therapist at a prestigious therapeutic college-prep boarding school. My daughter attended full time from September 2016 through August 2017. In addition to rigorous academic courses, the school also provided both individual and group therapy sessions for the students, all of whom ranged in age from 14 to 18.
Chris was very involved in my daughter’s daily life, not just during formal sessions, but, more importantly, as a constant and reliable source. Chris also conducted weekly follow-up with the rest of our family, including my wife, my younger daughter and myself. The sessions were low-key but highly effective and helpful.
Although we had attempted to work with other therapists prior to my older daughter’s enrollment, Chris was the first professional with whom she made a true connection. This is a testament to his dedication, professionalism, and, most importantly, his caring nature.
I can recommend Chris without any reservation
— excerpt from a letter of recommendation by a parent