Dr. Joan Telfair Baker

Over 30 years practice in culturally diverse systems, relationships, families, and organizations; nonverbal and verbal communications; anxiety, depression, trauma; addictions from substances, co-dependence, food, sex, anger, and domestic abuse. Research has been in nonverbal communications, gender differences, and multi-cultural psychotherapy. Selective use of a broad range of cognitive, behavioral, emotional, and spiritual counseling approaches, resolving problems within the social context with available resources, and including a healthy, holistic, individualized approach for each person. Techniques may include awareness exercises, instruction, modeling, communication skills practice, roleplaying, family sculpture and genogram; dreamwork; homework, etc. Each person is treated with respect and individuality.

The optimal treatment modality and the approximate number of counseling sessions is determined through an initial screening of client needs and goals and an individualized treatment plan. Appointments are 50 minutes and range from brief therapy (about 8 sessions) to longer term therapy, dependent on the person(s) and the situation.

Return phone calls are within a day, appointments within a week, and evening sessions are availabile. After hours, emergencies, reports, or court attendance, are also negotiable with prorated fees. If a more immediate response is necessary, clients may call the hotline 523-COPE or visit the nearest hospital emergency room.