Licensed to practice in Washington and accepts 9 insurances. Specializes in Depression, Trauma and PTSD, Anxiety and 10 more.
(she/her)
New to Grow
My name is Dr. Christine Gomes. I am a licensed clinical psychologist and I specialize in trauma treatment. I believe that we are healthiest when we turn toward ourselves with love and compassion and accept ourselves for who we truly are. I have special interests in relational and religious trauma, as well as working with people with addiction issues, severe depression, anxiety disorders, and suicidal thoughts and actions. No matter where you are in your healing journey, I hope to join you and help you see that you are not alone in the struggle. You are your greatest healer, and I will be your guide along the way.
My approach to therapy is based on my clients' preferences, as I want them to feel heard and empowered in the therapy process. The mind-body connection is key, so I like teaching my clients specific skills to cope with their problems more effectively. I am also a very relational therapist, and am happy to simply provide a safe space for you to share. I am heavily informed by Internal Family Systems Therapy and other trauma focused therapies. I believe that the mind-body connection is paramount and like to teach clients skills to improve their ability to identify what they need in a given moment and respond to those needs in an effective manner. I also help couples understand how to identify and respond to each other's needs more effectively.
In keeping with Internal Family Systems therapy, I believe all people have an inherent capacity to heal. Sessions are generally client-led, as autonomy is very important, especially for trauma survivors. Depending on your presenting problem, we might start by learning some new coping skills upfront, or we might dive into details of the problem that brought you to therapy. It is up to you.
Throughout my career, I have worked with a diverse population of clients with many different presenting problems. I feel comfortable working with a wide range of mental health problems, to include trauma, addiction, depression, anxiety and suicidality. I use an integrative approach to therapy, meaning I use several different approaches to treatment at once. This might involve psychoeducation, somatic (or body) interventions, or in-depth trauma treatment approaches like Internal Family Systems Therapy. What I love about Internal Family Systems Therapy is that it allows us to examine our conflicting thoughts and feelings in way that makes sense. The model has a simple way of helping clients realize that many of their "unhealthy" habits are actually strategies they have developed to protect themselves from pain. As we begin to heal, those habits lessen their grip on us, and we are able to live happier, more productive lives.
I identify as
Internal Family Systems (IFS)
What I love about Internal Family Systems Therapy is that it allows us to examine our conflicting thoughts and feelings in way that makes sense. The model has a simple way of helping clients realize that many of their "unhealthy" habits are actually strategies they have developed to protect themselves from pain. As we begin to heal, those habits lessen their grip on us, and we are able to live happier, more productive lives.