(he/him)
New to Grow
My approach to therapy is person-centered and exploratory. I draw on techniques from several approaches—including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and many Mindfulness-based interventions. I've also spent several years working with folks who benefit from different kinds of medications, and I have worked to help many clients talk to psychiatrists and find the right medication - and right dose- to help them feel better. With that said, I don't believe that medication should be the first approach for most people. The environments we find ourselves in, how we spend our time, and our past and current relationships, all have at least as much impact on how we feel as default brain chemistry for most people. I look forward to getting to know you and seeing how I can help!
I take a holistic approach to counseling. I pay attention to what’s happening in your life, as well as what you’re feeling and thinking. Together we'll look at how these worlds interact to impact how you experience your life every day. We'll spend some time talking about your history and important stressors in your life. We’ll work together to understand what’s bringing you in to therapy now on with you and what you’d like to get out of it. We can talk frankly about what you want out of therapy, and if it feels like a good fit.
I practice being empathetic, accepting people as they are without judgement, and supporting them with what they need. I've always been interested in different ways of looking at the world, and I like to get to know how each person sees things, instead of assuming that their experiences have been like my own. On a more concrete note have, I also have experience working with folks suffering from severe mental health issues and addiction issues. I've worked with kids, teens and adults, and I have an educational background in both psychology and social work.
I don't really have an ideal client in terms of life situation or identity. I think as long as people are open to having an honest interaction about where they are and what struggles they are having, I'm open to meeting them where they are at working with them. Ideally people are ready to jump in and start doing work, but if there is some hesitation about getting started, we can start by working with that.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
As it makes sense in your situation, we will practice becoming aware of the thoughts and inner voices that influence how you feel and act on daily basis.
Mindfulness-Based Therapy
As it make sense, we can practice observing thoughts and letting of the need to act on or engage with the thoughts. This can go a long way in helping you feel that you are actively making choices about what you do.
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
ACT provides lots of methods for helping us separate from our thoughts and feelings and fell less entangled in them.