W Michael Rogers, PsyD, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Psychologist
Theoretical Orientation
My theoretical orientation/approach to therapy is best described as integrative in nature. I draw upon a variety of therapy modalities (e.g., Psychodynamic/Interpersonal/Object Relations; Narrative; Systems; Feminist; Acceptance & Commitment Therapy). The therapy modality with the biggest influence upon the work that I do is Psychodynamic Psychotherapy. In my practice, however, I utilize the method of “best fit” when considering the type of modality/interventions to use. Individuals, their needs & goals are unique and “fluid;” it makes sense therefore, that the type of therapy modality considered be equally flexible.
Psychodynamic Psychotherapy:
The goals of psychodynamic psychotherapy vary depending on the method of treatment, which can be broadly described as either expressive or supportive. Expressive therapy seeks to relieve symptoms through the development of insight, or the slowly developing awareness of feelings and thoughts that were once outside of the person's awareness. Expressive therapy is based on the rationale that difficulties experienced in adult life originate in childhood; that children do not possess the maturity for making effective choices nor the independence to do so; and that methods of adapting that were developed in childhood may no longer be effective for adapting to the world as an adult. Through guidance from a therapist, the adult becomes aware of present ways of coping that are ineffective and how they served a purpose in childhood that is no longer relevant. The person learns that he or she now has a range of new options for solving problems, and for living in general that are now based on his or her maturity and independence.
In contrast to expressive therapy which is exploratory, supportive therapy remains closer to the surface of the patient's issues. Supportive therapy is an approach that is used to relieve immediate distress; to return the person to his or her previous level of functioning; and to strengthen adaptive ways of coping that the individual already possesses in order to prevent further discomfort. Expressive and supportive methods of treatment are not completely separate categories because elements of supportive therapy are used in expressive treatment and vice versa, depending on the therapeutic need. F or instance, if a person in exploratory treatment is experiencing distress, a supportive approach may be used for a period of time in order to help the person feel more stable (Retrieved 3/29/08: Psychodynamic Psychotherapy)
Training & Background:
- Psy.D.— Psychology Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Argosy University Seattle Washington School of Professional Psychology (2006), Seattle, Washington
- M.A.— Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Argosy University Seattle/Washington School of Professional Psychology (2005), Seattle, Washington
- B.A.— Bachelor of Arts, With Distinction, in Clinical Psychology from Mary Baldwin College (1992), Staunton, Virginia
- 2007-present — Clinical Psychologist (PY3741), Western State Hospital, Tacoma, Washington
- 2006-2007 — Post-doctoral at Western State Hospital, Tacoma, Washington
- 2005-2006 — Pre-doctoral Intern at Central Washington University (APA Accredited), Ellensburg, Washington
- 2000-2005 — Clinical Case Manager, Good Samaritan Behavioral Healthcare, Puyallup, Washington
