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S. Bruce Berger,M.A.,LMHC
Licensed Mental Health Counselor
I have a high success rate and work well with couples who seek to strengthen their relationship. I have almost 30 years of professional behavioral healthcare experience and have developed a program which is based on my decades of experiences with couples, as well as on the Gottman’s’ research. I have identified the 7 characteristics of successful couple relationships and have developed worksheets for couples to evaluate themselves and take action to improve their relationship on each of the 7 characteristics, and on the 7 characteristics to avoid which harms and weakens relationships. My experiences confirm that the more motivated a couple is and the harder they work to improve the 7 Cs of a strong relationship, the more progress they will make. Also, with the commonsense communications skills which I teach, many couples see significant and substantial improvement within a short period of time. Of course, progress is never a straight line up, but usually consists of 2 steps forward and 1 step back to significant progress, since changing unhealthy habits takes time and we learn from the habits that need improvement.
I use a similar formula during counseling sessions with individuals that includes enhancement of problem-solving skills along with enhancement of decision-making skills. Simultaneously, as participants learn these skills, a healthy mindset is developed via cognitive restructuring. Individuals learn to challenge negative self-talk with the “Negative Thought Monster,” as we explore what lessons can be learned from their negative experiences. As I believe that “a positive can always be found in a negative.” Oftentimes, obsessing on stressors becomes minimized and a positive psychological mindset is developed. As Buddha said, “The problem is NOT the problem, but your reaction is the problem.” So, being able to upload a “Pause” button allows the client to slow down reaction-time and respond appropriately and constructively with increased emotional wellbeing.
I enjoy providing value for both couples and individuals, and I look forward to working with you.
I use a similar formula during counseling sessions with individuals that includes enhancement of problem-solving skills along with enhancement of decision-making skills. Simultaneously, as participants learn these skills, a healthy mindset is developed via cognitive restructuring. Individuals learn to challenge negative self-talk with the “Negative Thought Monster,” as we explore what lessons can be learned from their negative experiences. As I believe that “a positive can always be found in a negative.” Oftentimes, obsessing on stressors becomes minimized and a positive psychological mindset is developed. As Buddha said, “The problem is NOT the problem, but your reaction is the problem.” So, being able to upload a “Pause” button allows the client to slow down reaction-time and respond appropriately and constructively with increased emotional wellbeing.
I enjoy providing value for both couples and individuals, and I look forward to working with you.
Qualifcations
Private Practice
- ( 1995-Currently ) Fee for Service Provider: Providing Individual, Couples and Family Counseling Specializing in high conflict divorce, custody issues, family conflict over estate, property, substance abuse, employability, and crisis situations in the form of “Concierge “ Service Package.
Military One Source
- (2014-Currently ) Providing Individual and Couples Counseling via an EAP prevention level outpatient system for Active-Duty service members focusing on enhancing Communication Skills, Cognitive Restructuring, Communications Skills Training, Problem Solving & Decision Making Enhancement Skills Training using a Solution Focused Model.
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Military & Family Life Counselor (MFLC) (5/8/15 - 2019) Military Health Network (MHN) Full Time. Schofield Barracks is home to numerous units and organizations with the main unit being the 25th Infantry Division USAP-Hi provides quality services, installation facilities, and training to 90,000 Soldiers, civilians and family members.
Fischer House
Education
- Antioch University, Honolulu, Hi: Master’s, Psychology Emphasis: Marriage & Family Counseling
- Monmouth College, Long Branch, N.J. Bachelor of Business
- University of Oregon, Eugene, Oregon 24 cr. Speech Pathology Professional Credentials
- National Certified Counselor (NCC)
- Licensed Mental Health Counselor – State of Hawaii
Payment Options
- Insurance: HMSA Commercial, HMSA Quest, UHA
- Private Pay: Cash, Credit
Contact Information
- Office Phone: (808) 501-0501x9919
- Fax: (808) 470-6202
- E-mail: [email protected]
Locations
- Honolulu, HI Office