Larry S. Cohen, Ph.D.
1213 Vine St.  Suite 216    Philadelphia, PA  19107    (215) 586-0697


Individual and Couples Psychotherapy - Mental Health and Addiction Problems
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About My Practice 

By integrating psycho-dynamic and object relations theory, I focus on emotional health, resolution
of relational difficulties
and, as indicated, abstinence from drugs, alcohol and compulsive sexual behaviors.

Key components of  treatment include exploring and understanding the lasting effects of
past traumas and
early developmental experiences as well as current life difficulties and challenges.

Past Trauma and Difficulty with Early Developmental Experiences can be a Primary Causal Factor in Addictions and Mental Health Problems.

In individual, couples and group therapy sessions, 
multiple life issues are addressed, including dysfunctional behaviors, low self-image and relational and family problems.

Addictions and Mental Health Problems

To cope with intolerable reality, the recurring stressors of daily

living and feelings of depression and anxiety, people often soothe themselves with alcohol, drugs or sexual activity. When people lose control over alcohol use, drug use, and/or sexual behaviors (or romantic involvements), their lives begin to unravel and their personal suffering increases. What once soothed pain now increases it and has become an addiction.

To break free of addictive behaviors and emotional trauma, an exploration of inner pain and emotional conflicts must occur. Doing this work requires an awareness of personal beliefs, attitudes and behaviors.

Inner conflicts are often the result of dysfunctional emotional development
rooted in past experience. Past traumas and early  developmental issues can lead to depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Therapy allows you to become mindful, emotionally aware and develop the skills necessary to resolve inner conflicts that cause pain.

Treatment options include:

Individual Psychotherapy
I use a person-centered approach and a psycho-dynamic perspective when working with addictions, complex post-traumatic stress disorders, and problems like depression and anxiety. Recovery concepts are valued and integrated into individual therapeutic work, assisting people in making better choices and living healthier, more enjoyable lives.


Couples Psychotherapy
Intimacy and communication are the cornerstones of healthy partnerships. In couples therapy, partners explore their relational history and the formation of dysfunctional ways of communicating in order to restore intimacy and understanding.
 

Group Psychotherapy
There is great healing power in the group process. Participating in a therapy group helps members build a supportive recovery network and work on resolving both present and past relational issues.