Everyone needs to reach out for help at some time in their lives. In an atmosphere of caring and support I'll help you explore the feelings and thoughts that make you believe you're stuck with anxiety, depression, or the effects of trauma and grief. We’ll create a calm, comfortable space where change feels natural and safe. Starting therapy takes courage, but it allows you to explore your past in a way that improves your future. My goal is to help you build the resilience and self-confidence to ride out challenges with a more peaceful mind and heart. My background as a social worker taught me to honor the whole story of your life; my experience as a therapist has shown me that healing starts with honesty, kindness, and concern. I'm happy for the opportunity to make this life-changing beginning with with you.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
It takes time to develop trust and communication. I like to see my clients at least once a week at the beginning of treatment so I can get to know them. We'll carefully process feelings that come up during and between those sessions. Some increase in symptoms at the start is a sign they're working hard and invested in therapy! Over time, sessions may be less frequent as clients overcome issues that brought them to therapy. I monitor how my clients are progressing at each meeting, adapting the session to ensure they get the help and support they need.
What treatment methods and tools do you utilize?
I work from a strengths perspective and practice cognitive/behavioral therapy methods. We explore how thoughts and beliefs effect mood and behavior. Tools include monitoring frequency/intensity of symptoms, pinpointing trigger events, and replacing negative thoughts with positive alternatives. I also use narrative therapy and guided relaxation techniques. I utilized EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) to treat PTSD and other anxiety disorders.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
My age and years of work in the field are assets to my practice. Every experience in a therapist's life becomes a tool to help their clients. Few problems unfamiliar to me. As I frequently say to clients, I'm very difficult to shock. I believe humor and lightness are a part of healing. There's a lot of room for laughter along with the work. I prioritize the trust, comfort, and wellbeing of my clients, who range in age from young adults to elders.