Attachment-based

My interest in attachment theory began about 10 years ago when I was working with children and adolescents in the community mental health system. Many of them were in foster care or juvenile detention, and it became clear that a secure attachment to caregivers sets the foundation for future relationships. The way we experience our caregivers growing up plays a vital role in how we relate to others as adults. If you've found yourself in relationships that make you question your worth or are afraid to get close to others, I can help you understand these patterns and work toward building healthier relationships with yourself and others.

Interpersonal

Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) is a structured psychotherapy that focuses on improving an individual's interpersonal relationships and addressing social issues that may contribute to emotional distress. The central idea is that personal relationships and life events, such as conflicts, transitions, grief, or role changes, can significantly impact mental health. IPT helps clients identify and address problems in these areas by improving communication, resolving conflicts, and building social support, with the ultimate goal of reducing symptoms of depression, anxiety, or other mood disorders. The therapist acts as a collaborator and guide, helping the client identify patterns in their relationships, resolve conflicts, and improve communication. By establishing trust and rapport, I will help the client feel understood and validated, which can build confidence and motivation to apply the skills to real-world relationships.

Psychodynamic

There is typically a part of ourselves or our behavior that we are unaware of. The goal of psychodynamic therapy is to help individuals gain deeper insight into their unconscious thoughts, feelings, and past experiences that influence their current behavior and emotional patterns. By exploring unresolved conflicts, childhood experiences, and repressed emotions, together we can aim to increase self-awareness and promote psychological healing. Through this process, individuals can better understand the root causes of their distress, develop healthier ways of relating to themselves and others, and achieve long-term emotional growth.

Trauma Informed Care

I've found that trauma-informed care is essential in therapy because it recognizes the widespread impact of trauma on an individual's mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Many individuals seeking therapy have experienced some form of trauma, whether it be from abuse, neglect, violence, loss, or other adverse life experiences. Trauma-informed care ensures that I approach treatment with an understanding of how trauma impacts behavior, emotions, and the ability to trust others. It focuses on helping folks process and heal from their traumatic experiences while building resilience, improving coping strategies, and fostering recovery while being mindful of practices that could inadvertently trigger or re-traumatize the client, such as certain language, topics, or therapeutic techniques. This reduces the risk of harm and supports the healing process.

Strength-Based

Individuals often come to therapy carrying intense feelings of guilt or shame over perceived failures or mistakes. Strength-based therapy recognizes the resilience individuals have already shown simply by seeking the support of a professional. It aims to build on that resilience rather than focusing on weaknesses or shortcomings. This approach shifts the therapeutic focus from what is "wrong" with the client to what is "right," highlighting their past successes, positive traits, and resources that can be used to address current challenges. Strength-based therapy encourages individuals to leverage their strengths to find practical ways to resolve issues and enhance their lives. I love helping clients recognize their own individual beauty they bring to the world!