CATHOLIC
CLERGY SUPPORT
While working towards her doctorate, Dr. Williams conducted research and published in two main fields: vocational development and the psychology of men and masculinity.
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Now away from academia, these two themes have followed her to her private practice where she works with Roman Catholic clergy and religious. Her approach is guided by an understanding of what helps men build an authentic and robust sense of manhood, and what it means for a career to be a calling.
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Dr. Williams is also a practicing Catholic with a background in spiritual discernment and spiritual warfare. She consults on an ongoing basis with the Archdiocese of Boston's Office of Canonical Affairs regarding individuals who present for exorcism.
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What defines "healthy masculinity?"
Jesus presented the perfect model of masculinity in his time on earth: a man of integrity, strength, faithfulness, and love. There is forceful and sometimes contentious debate about inherently gendered traits, roles, or behaviors - or if there even is such a thing. The good news is that our Catholic understanding of positive social behavior and affective maturity points us in the direction of both spiritual and psychological health.
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Do I need therapy?
That's a personal choice, but some professional guidance may be helpful.
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We see some common themes in how signs of burnout and unhappiness can appear in men. - Although we should acknowledge that each human is unique, and differences based on culture, generation, and family upbringing also exist. - Many men find trouble surfacing in ways like as anger, numbness, distractedness, or avoidance which may not immediately 'click' as mental health concerns.
It may also be that ways of relieving stress start to get problematic. An honest conversation about food, gaming, drinking, recreational drugs, pornography, and masturbation can help you recognize starting points for change.
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What if I prefer not to talk about that?
You are also in charge of where conversations go and how much you talk about in any given session. Like every relationship, the therapeutic relationship should be grounded in respecting boundaries.
This also includes a respect of a person's right to confidentiality and your information not leaving the boundary of the therapy office.
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There are sometimes questions which need asked, and there are some limits to confidentiality. That said, Dr. Williams is particularly prudential in informing clients about their rights and working towards mutually agreed upon solutions in difficult circumstances.
location
With COVID-19, telehealth appointments via video and phone are available. In-person accomodations can be discussed on a case-by-case basis.
cost
Coordination with clergy health benefits is possible, as are special rates for those who may prefer to not utilize benefits through their diocese at this time.