Christopher Martell, Ph.D. ABPP
Founding Partner- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Treatment of mood and anxiety disorders
- Behavioral couples therapy
- Lesbian, gay, and bisexual affirmative CBT
Orientation
Dr. Christopher Martell is a cognitive-behavioral psychologist. As such, the therapy he practices emphasizes patterns of behaving and thinking that have a negative influence on people's lives. Therapy is focused on the problems of today, although patterns learned over time are also addressed. Admittedly more behavioral than purely cognitive in his approach, Dr. Martell uses treatment approaches that have been validated in empirical studies over decades of research. Treatments are provided flexibly, meaning that a case formulation approach is used, considering the problems that each client brings to therapy. If behavioral problems are the focus of treatment, techniques will be used such as behavioral activation, exposure and response prevention, and relaxation training. If treatment focuses more on negative thinking and beliefs about the self and world that are troublesome for a client, cognitive interventions such as cognitive-restructuring, automatic thought records, and evaluation of long-standing beliefs are used. Typically both behavioral and cognitive approaches are used in therapy. Researchers have also developed treatment protocol manuals for specific problems such as social phobia and panic disorder. When such protocols are available and appropriate for an individual client, they can be quite useful as treatment guides.
Dr. Martell's clients can expect the following: 1) Each session will have a mutually agreed upon agenda to structure the 50-minutes. 2) Dr. Martell will ask many questions about the client's weekly activities, the consequences of client choices, or how a client's interpretations of life events have had an impact. 3) Dr. Martell will provide direct feedback; 4) Between-session assignments to extend therapy to daily life will be discussed and set up after most sessions.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy is a collaborative working relationship in which the client's active involvement and honest communication are crucial. Therapy is not something that is "done to someone", rather it is a joint process of working with a psychologist who serves as a participant/observer in a client's life, and as a coach to help clietnts learn new strategies for coping with life problems. The first few sessions will involve an evaluation of goals and needs. Part of the work will involve identifying patterns of thinking, behaving and relating that may impede life goals, expression of adaptive emotions and development of mutually satisfying relationships.
While cognitive-behavioral therapy is goal-oriented, and directive, it is also a supportive therapy. Dr. Christopher Martell has been trained in techniques that emphasize the importance of the therapeutic relationship such as supportive therapy, reflective-listening, and Functional Analytic Psychotherapy (FAP). Therapy is not mechanical but interactive. It is directive, but supportive. Therapy emphasizes change in thinking and behavior, but also acceptance of oneself. Feelings and emotions are to be experienced, not feared, and the inevitable struggles of life are best faced directly. In essence, therapy provides the structure and help to do so effectively.
Background
Dr. Martell earned his doctorate degree in Clinical and School Psychology from Hofstra University in 1988 and has been in clinical practice since 1989. He is Clinical Associate Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, and of Psychology at the University of Washington. He is Board certified in clinical and in behavioral psychology through the American Board of Professional Psychology. Dr. Martell is an author of four books and other scholarly publications. Further information at: www.christophermartell.com
Insurance
Dr. Martell accepts most major insurance plans, however, it is always recommended that new clients contact their insurance companies prior to their first session to inquire about provider panels and pre-authorization for services. Clients wishing to use their insurance should also be aware that all insurance claims require a diagnosis from the American Psychiatric Association's DSM-IV, and will be reported to the insurance company. Clients who have concerns about this information being given to their insurance company may wish to forego using their insurance to pay for services. I am a Medicare Provider, and as such am required by law to bill Medicare for all recipients.