LMFT, 4 years of experience
Hi! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 12 years working in the field of Dual Diagnosis, 6 of those in a therapeutic capacity. I like working with adult individuals who are struggling with their mental health and have used self destructive behaviors to cope in the past. I truly believe that who you are as a person is seperate from your behavior and that we are all just trying to survive out here! I use a variety of different therapeutic approaches that are evidenced based to help you feel better and reach your goals. I am also certified in Brainspotting and have been using this as a modality for about 4 years now.
In our first session, we have some introductions and some background information. Then we look at what the goal of therapy would be and discuss some options as to how we will get there. We will work on tailoring therapy towards what you would like. We can also discuss what you would like as "homework" - it doesn't mean a written assignment necessarily, but basically what will you be willing or able to try between sessions.
I think that my greatest strengths as a therapist is truly being with you in this journey. I listen, I remember what you told me, and I really try to collaborate with you on what you want to see as a result. I don't have a cookie-cutter approach to therapy and really lean into trying different interventions versus focusing in on just a CBT or DBT approach. Blending different coping skills together and seeing what is most effective for you is what I like most about the therapeutic process.
My clients are typically people who have struggled with coping in healthy ways and desire a different, healthier, or more helpful way to cope with things. They might feel stuck, lost, or feel like they are floating through life without a clear direction. They might lack motivation to make certain changes or don't know where to begin. They are ready to put in some effort to making some changes. On the more positive side of things, they are open-minded to trying out different things (because in reality, what do you have to lose?) and have a good sense of humor.
I use a variety of different modalities and interventions depending on what seems most effective for you. This could be CBT, DBT, or ACT. All are evidence-based.
I am certified in brainspotting and use this to help process through trauma effectively.
I like to look at what is already working for you and look at how we can use your strengths that you already have to your advantage so you can feel better sooner.
I look at most therapeutic interventions through a trauma lens. This can mean a lot of things, but mainly that I want you to have autonomy in your therapy, I want us to work together towards solutions, and that you get choices throughout this whole process.
I do like to use mind body approaches to help with emotional regulation and feeling grounded and centered.