I believe in genuine, authentic interaction with my clients using humor and warmth. I believe using an informed approach with proven interventions are the 'keys to the kingdom' and allow the client to 'unlock' their own way forward. I believe each client has an inner wisdom that - once discovered - will lead them onto their own path, towards their most genuine, core sense of self, and healing. It is important to be able to identify and describe your goals, and remove whatever is blocking you from reaching them. My concentration was neural-plasticity (the way the brain is trained and untrained), I have extensive experience in addiction medicine (this includes disordered eating as well as other addictions), and multi-cultural experience as well as LGBTQ. I am also a member of American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy, accredited supervisor candidate, Adjunct Professor of Psychology.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
In your first session, we will explore what brought you to therapy. Together we will set clear, specific goals that can help you measure your progress. I believe that you, the patient, has an inner wisdom that together we can tap into. Using this strength/patient centered approach, we will move you forward to your goals - and towards hope.
What treatment methods and tools do you utilize?
I look at things systemically, the system you grew up in in your family, your culture, town, state and country, even your church community or extra-curricular community where applicable. These are the building blocks to your values - the hows and whys of the ways you act and react out in the world. Why do we do what we do? How can we change it? How did I end up here...again!? I like to take a 2-pronged approach. How do we deal with it when it happens? And how can we learn to see it coming - so as to mitigate it? Using talk therapy (to identify the problems) cognitive behavioral therapy (to gain tools to improve your mood and reactivity) and mindfulness (to train ourselves to stay in the 'here and now') we can engage in proven techniques to reduce the severity, frequency and length of your distress, and further engage in improved relationships and life satisfaction. You want a life congruent with your own values, hopes and dreams. We help you identify that, and move you towards that.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
My background was in the creative arts, and I use that often in my relationships with clients. My concentration while studying was in neural-plasticity (which is basically the science on how the brain can change old thinking patterns with practice.) I think the combination of creativity and science makes for good therapy, while warmth and humor makes for a great relationship.