I specialize in working with women and men who are serious about strengthening and increasing their options in dating and developing healthy, satisfying relationships. I offer one-on-one consultation designed to increase your success in meeting your dating and/or relationship goals.
WE WORK TOGETHER TO CRAFT A PERSONALIZED PROGRAM. Included are:
1) Getting started: What is in the way? What factors maintain isolation and/or inhibit successful encounters.
2) First impression aspects: appearance, sense of groundedness, eye contact, body awareness, styles of initiating.
3) Communication skills: making contact, holding interest, getting a date, the art of listening, including your feelings and needs in a mature and respectful way.
4) Relational mutuality: how to have a 50/50 partnership, fighting fair, negotiating needs.
5) Sexuality: talking sex, reciprocity of responsibility for sexual satisfaction.
6) Beliefs and fears: Safety, changing outdated and damaging beliefs, expanding self-esteem, identifying ways we sabotage our goals.
7) Self-care: balancing aspects of life, establishing a support network, defining resources, setting clear goals, and managing issues of health and exercise.
Appointments are designed to provide evaluation, direction, a step-by-step plan of action and constructive feedback and skill building. Classes and ongoing groups available as needed to practice skills, receive peer feedback and develop and deepen communication and the capacity for intimate connection.
Call for a free initial phone preview to determine if this is right for you.
(510) 595-4667
Valerie Machacek, M.A. I have over 20 years experience as a counselor, group facilitator and educator. My training is in Counseling Psychology, Hakomi therapy and movement therapy. I have a warm, caring style of interaction that allows me to confront relational patterns without judgment, to offer suggestions without engendering reactivity and to recognize and celebrate successes no matter how big or small. At the same time, when necessary, I have the strength to challenge you into your best possible self with humor, care and a passion that supports your aliveness and presence. I have seen many men and women succeed in areas of relationship that had eluded them previously. I encourage you to investigate this work to determine if it is right for
|
