My Approach to Helping
My approach to working with clients is simple. We work together on the goals you bring into therapy or if you need help identifying some, we collaborate on creating goals. In the areas of your life that you need to be more skillful, we will pull from my expertise in dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and radically open dialectical behavior therapy (RO-DBT). These two different evidence based practices cover the spectrum of control (under control, flexible control or optimal control, and over control). Some people need help getting things under control such as their emotions, impulses, and behaviors in general. DBT is very good for that. For people who need to learn how to relax, connect with others, decrease emotional loneliness, learn to play, and be more open, we will turn to RO-DBT. I have experience working in various settings and levels of care. If you are needing to transition into a higher level of care or looking to step down from a higher level of care, I can support you in doing so.
What I Love about Being a Psychotherapist
It really feels like an honor to be trusted by my clients and watch them grow.
My Role as a Therapist
If I can do anything for you as a therapist it would be to
-help you learn about yourself and cultivate a kind and loving relationship with self
-teach you ways to better navigate the world, thoughts, emotions, and decision making
-know that you are genuinely cared for
-root for you
My Guiding Ethical Principles
Kindness, Integrity, Compassion, Benevolence
On the Fence About Going to Therapy?
It is okay to be on the fence about going to therapy. My recommendation would be to try it out and see what comes up. When there is a good fit between the therapist and the client, therapy can be life changing. Therapy is often different from how people expect it to be and how it is depicted in popular culture.
Important Factors for Choosing a Therapist
The therapist you choose to work with should be someone who is knowledgeable in the ways that are important for your goals in therapy. Therapy requires vulnerability, the willingness to develop feelings of safety (or trust), and willingness. It's important for your therapist to take in feedback that you provide and for you to feel like you can be open with them. I personally value a therapist who continues to develop themselves personally and professionally.
Why Going to Therapy Does Not Mean You are Weak or Flawed
Viewing going to therapy as making you weak or flawed is a symptom of stigma about mental health care that needs to be shed. Therapy can be a wonderful place to intentionally learn, process, grow, and receive support during incredibly challenging times. It is a brave act for many and at the same time, needs to be normalized. Everyone could use an intentional hour to learn, check in, and be present. Life has some real challenging aspects to it. Struggling is normal. So is getting support.
Clinicians who offer sliding scale payment structures may offer lower or reduced fees based on an individual's ability to pay. Please contact this clinician for more details regarding their fees or sliding scale policy.