Brian Hayes, MFT Intern
Counseling for Individuals and Couples
Life Practice Counseling Group
Counseling services are available for men, women and couples who are seeking to create new meaning in their lives and relationships. Areas of specialization include:
Resolving Crises: For those experiencing crisis, I provide a peaceful, compassionate environment in which individuals in crisis can find a calm center amidst the storm that surrounds them. I have worked with people troubled by depression, anxiety and unresolved trauma. Together, we'll explore the meanings behind the human tendency to hold onto things long past their usefulness, and construct a new way forward.
Midlife Transitions: Human beings are meant to grow, emotionally and spiritually, throughout their lives. As our souls call out for change, many of us drown out that call with distractions (such as overwork, affairs, alcohol overuse), ignoring or perhaps fearing the challenge to be who we were meant to be.
Men’s Issues
Although women are highly intuitive, insightful and compassionate, there are times when a man in transition might prefer to interact with a therapist who’s shared a similar journey. I'll provide a supportive setting in which men can safely connect to their feelings to learn and grow.
Addictions: When life overwhelms, Addiction can seem like a best friend, soothing our fears with comforting numbness. Developing new coping skills takes time and fearless honesty. I have extensive training working with clients who have allowed Addiction to control their lives. My approach is nonjudgmental, encouraging and patient. I don’t believe in powerlessness. I believe we all have the strength to change.
Marital and Couples Counseling: The key to effective long-term relationships isn’t having two people say, do and think the same way. Shared interests and values between partners are important, but the key to successful relationships is the extent to which each partner is allowed to grow emotionally and spiritually. Yet people don’t advance at the same rate. When couples find themselves drifting apart or on a collision course, it can be helpful to pause, assess and set the course for a new future. Fully realized individuals are capable of sharing power, tolerating differences, and nurturing growth without feeling threatened, suffocated or diminished.
Education/Training
I hold a master’s degree in clinical psychology from Antioch University, Los Angeles and I am currently pursuing licensure as a marriage and family therapist. I have gained extensive training in addiction and family systems. I am also an adjunct faculty member at Pacific Oaks College where I teach courses in human development and communications.
Bio
In my mid-40s, I felt that there was something missing, that life had more to offer, and I had more to offer life. After a period of reflection, I enrolled in a graduate program in clinical psychology at Antioch University, Los Angeles. I gained my first clinical experience counseling chronic heroin addicts at a methadone clinic in Downtown Los Angeles. Since then, I have collaborated with men and women in a variety of settings to re-story their lives. Each day, as I witness clients overcoming fears and affecting lasting change, I am ever more amazed at the resilience of the human spirit.
Memberships
California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists
Helpful Links
 You are the hero in the story of your life:
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Practice Areas/Issues Treated
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Therapy
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Life Transitions
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Addiction
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Marriage & Family Therapy
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Anger Management
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Marriage Counseling
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Caregiver Issues
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Men's Issues
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Couples
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Relationship Issues
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Depression
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Work and Career Issues
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Divorce
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Licenses/Certifications
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Marriage and Family Therapist Registered Intern (MFTI)
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