My Approach to Helping

When you seek out a therapist, especially after experiencing trauma inflicted by another person, trust is paramount. Relational trauma is all about violation of trust. So, you'll want a therapist with whom you can relate well AND feel safe. A major focus of my work is on building this trust. You'll also want a therapist who will be professional and not overwhelmed by the painful details of abuse and feelings of shame. To accept you for who you are, faults and all, perhaps for the first time ever. And, often overlooked, you'll want a therapist with whom to laugh with and experience joy again.

My approach to helping you heal from traumatic experiences is to develop this safe space for you to re-discover your strength, encourage you to search within for your inner wisdom and courage, and integrate your painful past into a healthy and useful present. As my practice name "Odyssey Psychotherapy" suggests, I view our work together as a journey focused on exploration and discovery. The ultimate goals are resilience and wholeness, a peace within yourself and a strength to tackle whatever lies ahead.

My role is that of companion and guide, walking alongside you every step of the journey whether that's a few months or much longer. Together, this relationship of trust and safety we forge becomes the vessel from which we embark on that voyage. Each step of the way, I maintain profound respect for your pace and voice when making decisions and growing in therapy. Experience has taught me that wounds from relational traumas require this kind of respect and focus on empowerment. My belief is that with my steady and safe presence holding the sacred confidential space for you to be real and authentic, that you will make important connections, carry with you a renewed inner strength, and relate with others authentically and confidently.

If this sounds like what you're needing, I encourage you to give me a call or send me a message. Let me know where you are in your journey to healing and what help you need to move further along the path.

Specific Issue(s) I'm Skilled at Helping With

Relational Trauma and PTSD stemming from childhood abuse, domestic violence, sexual assault, bullying, and other person-to-person violations of trust/power.

On the Fence About Going to Therapy?

Given the investment of emotional energy and money in therapy, any hesitance on your part is understandable. Consider this though: How long have you been dealing with the concerns that led you to research therapists, and what led you to seek outside help? Chances are you've been struggling to address this alone and are stuck. If what you've read so far about my approach seems helpful, I encourage you to contact me to arrange a free 30-minute consultation call (no strings or commitment at that point) and see how you feel after that. What have you got to lose besides an opportunity to get better?

What I Say to People Concerned about the Therapy Process

Anyone who has had trust violated - sometimes in the most profound of ways - has every right to be nervous about starting therapy and what it might entail. I encourage all my clients to go at their own pace, ask questions, and I frequently remind them of their ability to say no and make informed choices. There are no forced disclosures before you're ready. There are no required 'homework' assignments and no 'passing' grade. Your journey is as unique as you. My guide is the confidence I have in your ability to discern what you believe is right for your life and to act accordingly. My task is NOT to take responsibility for your life or force you to do anything against your wishes.