Meet the Therapist – Ed Cochard, MA, LPA
Today’s edition introduces you to Ed Cochard. He is currently accepting new clients and sees adolescents 14+, adults, couples, and families at our office. He is in network with BCBS, Medcost, Aetna, and Tricare.
Ed is a licensed psychological associate who has served in clinical and administrative roles while providing individual, family, couples, and group counseling in inpatient psychiatric, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, and office settings. He has experience treating both mental health and substance abuse issues with a broad range of clients from adolescents to older adults. His areas of clinical focus include treatment of anxiety and mood disorders, anger management, eating disorders, behavioral disorders, and substance use disorders. Ed utilizes a blend of cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, reality therapy, and motivational interviewing in his treatment approach.
Why did you decide to become a therapist?
I’ve always been the guy that people have turned to for support-even as a kid. Helping people has always been natural to me and something I have enjoyed doing. It was a natural progression for me to turn it into meaningful career.
I’ve never been to therapy. What should I expect during therapy appointments with you?
Validation, honesty and unconditional support are central to my approach. Everyone wants to be heard and understood-especially in times of struggle. I also believe everyone appreciates caring honesty and a direct approach. This helps with building a therapeutic relationship based upon trust. My clients learn that I care and that they can trust what I say-and that I will also provide little nudges towards progress and success. Sessions with me will also always be filled with humor, and when appropriate and necessary, laughter.
What is different about talking to a therapist than talking to a good friend?
Support from a good friend is vital to one’s well-being and growth, and talking to a good friend(s) is always encouraged. Adding a therapist to your social support network is helpful in order to gain someone with more of a clinical perspective with your concerns. A therapist tends to have experience and training in a great many areas and can provide support, guidance and assistance that is not available through other social supports.
Fun Fact:
I am a huge sports fan! I grew up outside of Philadelphia so my office is adorned with paraphernalia from Philly teams. I am also a great lover of the beach. I spend a lot of time on the beach just soaking in the atmosphere.
If you’d like to schedule an appointment with Ed, call our office at (910) 790-9500 or email administration@chrysaliscenter-nc.com.