Alex Boianghu is a Licensed Professional Counselor seeing individuals and couples in his Connecticut-based private practice. As a yoga teacher, meditation teacher, experienced somatic therapist, and holder of an advanced EMDR certificate, Alex is passionate about bringing clients therapies that strengthen the mind-body-soul connection. Alex uses these therapies—among others—to help his clients both recover from a variety of mental health challenges—including depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and addiction—and empower them to live more freely and in-line with their natural self.
We asked Alex more about his work with clients and his guiding philosophies on therapy.
Alex’s background and personal life
How did you decide to become a therapist?
In my teens, I experienced an existential crisis that started as a deep questioning about everything and opened me up to everything psychology and spirituality. I have since been driven to live life fully and authentically. In college, after taking my first psychology class while also delving deeply into Buddhism, I realized I wanted to bring the teachings of both the East and the West into psychotherapy. And that has been my journey!
What was your previous work before going into private practice?
I’ve been in private practice for 30 years.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I enjoy reading, meditating, writing, hiking, and conversing about meaningful topics.
Alex’s specialties and therapy philosophies
What guiding principles inform your work?
We are holistic beings operating in disembodied ways believing we are a thinking mind. The door towards authenticity begins in the body and we must recognize the unity of the mind-body as inseparable. Healing takes place within a kind and loving therapeutic relationship which allows for all unconscious material to become evident and transformed.
What clientele do you work with most frequently?
I have worked with clients from all of over the world ranging in ages of 14-80. I am open to working with everyone because the root of all of suffering is the same—self hatred—and self love and compassion are always the keys to healing.
Can you tell us more about your specialties in anxiety and depression?
Anxiety and depression are the two most often reported issues in therapy across all ages and cultural-ethnic backgrounds. My approach is holistic and addresses anxiety and depression by examining the body for any medical issues and then addressing the underlying core issues which manifest is as anxiety or depression.
Can you tell us more about your specialty in clients recovering from trauma and/or addiction?
Addiction and trauma are interrelated. We all experience different forms and intensities of trauma which create hurt and fear. Eventually, unresolved trauma becomes unbearable, and we experience anxiety and depression which seems unresolvable. As suffering continues, and our habitual ways of coping stop working, we attempt to resolve our suffering through addictions. I offer trauma-informed therapy, EMDR, and somatic healing methods to treat trauma.
Can you tell us more about your work with couples?
My approach is to help couples realize that the issues they experience in their relationship are often symptoms of unresolved individual issues that become activated and projected in the relationship. My approach is based on Imago Relationship Therapy, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, and the book Undefended Love by Jett Psaris and Marlena Lyons.
My goal is to help clients use the relationship as a mirror for their own patterns. All couples want love and connection, but many feel they can not have that due to the problems within their relationship. As couples progress in therapy, they realize they must turn inwards for the relationship to thrive.
What do you find most rewarding about your work?
My work and who I am are inseparable. I do not play the role called psychotherapist—I live a deeply examined and authentic life in and out of the office. Life is my office.
Therapy sessions with Alex
What will our first session together be like? What happens in ongoing sessions?
The first session is crucial because it’s in the first session that trust is gained or lost and connection is of paramount importance. It is also important that the client feels that healing is possible and that we can achieve it together.
Session after session, we will continue to make sure that we are focused on the core issues and recognize that whatever we are discussing always revolves around these core issues. Each week we will discuss how the previous session was integrated into life.
How long do clients typically see you for?
Clients typically see me for 12-24 weeks.
Are there any books you often recommend to clients?
Absolutely! Most important is There is Nothing Wrong With You by Cheri Huber.
Do you assign “homework” between sessions?
Absolutely. I ask clients to read, review session notes, make notes on reflections, and bring questions to the next session.
How do you help ensure I'm making progress in therapy?
Awareness is key… progress is measured in the awareness of patterns, the release of patterns, and the living in authenticity.
How do I know that it’s time to start seeking therapy?
Suffering is a clue that something is bothering you, and after attempting to resolve it on your own, you feel frustrated that what you are trying is not working. This is when professional help maybe useful.
How can I prepare for our first session?
Nothing special needs to be done. Be yourself and as honest and open as possible.
How will I know it’s time to end my time in therapy with you or reduce session frequency?
This happens organically and both of us will start to feel that we have addressed many issues and that there is stability in your authenticity.
Why should I seek therapy, rather than turning to my partner, friends, or other loved ones?
Therapy provides an objective observer: the therapist. Family and partners are often too enmeshed with their own psyche. They may be loving loving, but this is not enough for deep transformation… In therapy, you may feel more free to speak without the inhibition that is often present with family or friends. Being open and vulnerable is paramount to healing.
What advice would you share with therapy seekers?
No matter what, healing is possible. Hope is most important.
Visit Alex’s profile to watch his introductory video, read more about him, and book an initial call!