My approach to helping is eclectic. This simply means I don't strictly adhere to one way of working. I work differently with each person I see by accessing any number of approaches, including psychoanalytic, cognitive behavioral, dialectic behavioral, existential, feminist, and relational therapies, as well as mindfulness and EMDR. The reason for this is not fanciful; it's practical. I received my education and training at UCLA, a research school, and research outcomes form the clinical backbone of my practice. What I know from my education and training is that some approaches are more effective than others depending on the problem. We know, for instance, that cognitive behavioral therapy can show effectiveness in treating depression, anxiety, anger and trauma with standardized protocols; dialectic behavioral therapy is indicated for maintaining emotional regulation, and treating self-harm and suicidality; mindfulness shows efficacy for stress reduction and anxiety as well as substance abuse; and EMDR shows evidence that it works for PTSD, trauma related disorders, depression, and anxiety and shows some evidence of efficacy with addiction treatment. So that's the science: It indicates that some forms of therapy show more efficacy than others for particular symptoms. The science of psychotherapy also reveals to us other factors at play in helping you feel better. We know that, in additional to the approach we use, there are additional factors that are fundamental to your improvement in functioning and well-being:
Do you feel there is an alliance with your therapist? The alliance is not only the treatment goals and rationales for the treatment approach, but also the bond between client and therapist.
Does the therapist demonstrate empathy for you? You should feel that your therapist holds you with unconditional positive regard.
Does the therapist create a healing environment?
Although we cannot guarantee results, these factors generally lead toward better outcomes in treatment.
Ray Cochran serves Echo Park, Silverlake, Los Feliz, Atwater and the surrounding areas including Eagle Rock, Glassell Park, Mt. Washington, Downtown LA, Hollywood, West Hollywood, Burbank, Studio City. Areas of focus include Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Self-Esteem, Mental Health, Grief, Loss, Medical Issues, Addiction, Trauma, Work Issues, and Men's Issues. Ray Cochran is LGBT-Affirmative and his practice focuses on both individual therapy and couples therapy. Ray Cochran is an EMDR-trained practitioner.