Intensives (intensive psychotherapy) are customized therapeutic experiences for situations that need resolution and movement. Intensives are for individuals, couples, families, and or siblings that want to move through an impasse. Sometimes this is working through the pain of a betrayal, or the memory of childhood trauma, or solidifying new healthy behaviors in a family system. When weekly therapy sessions are more injurious than helpful, an intensive may be recommended because it allows for the healing to take place deeply throughout the duration of the intensive.
Intensive Psychotherapy appointments usually span 1 to 4 days and are scheduled by appointment. In that amount of time, participants are able to access an emotional depth that helps them move through an event. They are also able to acquire and utilize tools in an emotionally safe environment. Intensive Psychotherapy requires an extensive intake process, and this gives the REC team an opportunity to get to know the clients better and will inform parts of the therapy.
The Relationship Enrichment Center is a teaching practice and to that end, Sheila includes interns and or invites other therapists who are eager to learn this process to participate and enhance our work. These professionals have experience in assisting in intensives, where they can play roles of your family members, currently and historically. This helps with identification and sharing of feelings. They also give helpful feedback and are there to learn, accommodate and provide support. Of course, having interns in the room would require the consent of the individual, couple or family.