I love what I do. While I have an affinity for couples work, most of the work I do is on an individual platform. I bring a varied approach to mental health and recovery from trauma. I consider our relationship to be collaborative, however, I am flexible and will take the lead at times when necessary or therapy feels "stuck". I am sensitive the to the fact that much of what you share in session, has never been shared with others and am invested in making therapy a safe space, and a place that you look forward to coming every time. I have a faith and regular spiritual practice, and my spiritual practice is largely to meet people where they are in the journal of life. I consider myself to be respectful of my clients experience, feelings, space and beliefs, and I also model this kind of "radical acceptance" to my clients. I bring a variety of experience and training to my work. I believe in the mind/body connection and have formal training in mindfulness-based therapies including DBT, guided imagery, kinesiology, and color-shapes work for trauma. I am also proficient in CBT, solution-focused and other talk-therapies and bring an empathetic supportive stance to therapy allowing the client to often come to their own understandings and solutions. Having worked in inpatient facilities in the beginning of my career, I have a strong background in substance abuse recovery. In my work with couples, I enjoy the dynamic aspects of helping clients to learn to listen respectfully and communicate more effectively. Clients often see that the solutions to their problems while seemingly insurmountable are actually simple when they are willing to work at it. I am currently training in Emotionally Focused therapy, and utilize the Gottman's techniques addressing the "Four Horsemen" in relationships.
In the first session, I will work on getting to know you. I want to begine to get a sense of how we will work together and whether we are a good fit. I will encourage to share your past experiences in therapy, and what you are seeking in the way of therapeutic support. I will be transparent as far as any questions you have of me, and we will go over informed consent.
As I often work collaboratively, I am constantly learning from my clients. I believe that i am able to establish a strong therapeutic bond as clients can feel my interest and compassion for them. I am also respectful of the things in life that work for you, and only want to help you change those things that are problematic.
I enjoy couples work. I treat clients who are struggling with faith or are looking for Christian or spiritual/existential based work. I have a background in musical theater and love working with actors, artists, and people who may need support creatively, or enjoy expressive arts in therapy. I also love to work with solution-focused clients.
Used to support DBT practices for emotional regulation and support couples in changing responses and working with partners emotionally to increase sense of trust and connection. I used this practice along with motivational interviewing in family and individual treatment with recovery from addictions.