Robert Murphy, LMFT, CGP
The Evolution of My Work
As long as I can remember, I’ve been fascinated by people’s interactions. As a kid I would watch and listen to the ways people related together—my parents with each other, each parent with my brother and sister, and of course, my interactions with all of them. Naturally, this extended outward to include grandparents, friends, friends’ parents, teachers, coaches, and clergy.
Like listening to music (another deep passion of mine) I found myself constantly listening to how people communicated—what words they used, what tones of voice, what body language and facial expressions. And I knew early on that what transpired between people wasn’t just the sum of parts, the sum total of the pieces that each party brought. Somehow I knew that the dynamics between people were almost always co-created. Certainly, there were exceptions to this—in some cases it was indeed one-sided, like when Coach Smith would yell at all of us regardless of who did what … and probably just because he was having a bad day. However, by and large, it seemed that there was something that happened when people came together to communicate—a collaboration or collusion, a synergistic give-and-take that either made things run smoothly, or created a mess.
My Mission
I love the work I do with individuals, and always have. There’s something almost sacred about sitting with one other person and listening deeply … taking time to consider what’s being said, speculating where the blocks might be, attending to emotional information (theirs and mine), and then thoughtfully interacting in ways that foster a collaborative solution. I also have a deep passion for working with couples and leading groups. Being able to really join, to get in the dynamic mix and help effect positive change is one thing that I’ve loved since 1988 when I began practicing.
In short, my mission is to openly and collaboratively consider each individual, whether single or coupled, and provide the best informed, highest quality counseling in order to achieve the goals with which you come to work with me.
My Counseling Style
I integrate several complementary methods that support an approach tailored to each individual.
With respect and understanding, I work collaboratively with you to help identify obstacles, build strengths, and give you the tools you need to achieve growth in the specific areas we have agreed to address.
Individual sessions are 50 minutes and take place once a week. In some cases, if every-other-week sessions are more beneficial, arrangements can be made for that as well.
A word about group psychotherapy – At some point in time, I almost always recommend group therapy as an addition to or a continuation of the work that’s been accomplished individually and in couples counseling.