Therapist Profile

My Approach to Helping

I feel that every individual is unique; therefore every therapeutic relationship is unique. For therapy to be effective, it is essential that you find a therapist with whom you feel comfortable and understood. The following is a brief introduction to my philosophy and practice to help you decide if I am a good match for your needs.

What I value most about therapy could be described with these concepts: Authenticity. Empathy. Mindfulness.

I believe that we as humans are very skilled at denying feelings that are scary or difficult. Problems occur when these repressed or denied feelings are projected out onto others or into destructive patterns of behavior and negative thought processes.

I believe in the power of insight to foster change. Insight and consciousness of ongoing patterns in thought and behavior provides choice. The more one is aware of what becomes activated in triggering situations, the easier it is to change course and embrace your authentic Self.

We all have defenses, and that's okay. However, when old and outdated patterns of defense continue without examination, one is prevented from fully living in the present.

I feel that psychotherapy is a collaborative experience, and that we participate in a journey together. The therapeutic relationship provides opportunities to examine past and current relationships with others and with the Self.

I believe in the power of the "here and now" By observing and reflecting upon what occurs within a session, we are able to examine and work through the deeper conflicts that occur in your life outside of therapy. By becoming mindful of the feelings and experiences that occur in the safe, contained space of the therapy room, light is shed upon deeply rooted impulses, losses, wants and needs that are often denied and locked in the shadows of the psyche.

I respect the difficulty of undertaking the therapeutic journey, and therefore consider myself challenging yet empathic.

I consider myself an active therapist, yet the session is not about me...the session is your time.