My Approach to Helping
I have a background in transpersonal and integral work, as well as a mindfulnessbodyfulness (somatic) orientation. In practice I am eclectic. I draw on psychodynamic and behavioral theory and interventions. I consider myself a fellow traveler and believe in the innate wisdom of my clients. I believe therapy works through a "re-parenting" or "re-attachment" process whereby clients learn to accept themselves more fully. I explicitly and implicitly welcome the entirety of your experience and actively support or guide you towards a greater sense of authenticity and aliveness. At times I focus on the past but often guide you into the present experience through somatic and emotional "experiments" and inquiry. When called for, I can be appropriately directive while respecting your self-agency and wisdom.
With couples, there is a need for emotional honesty and a sense of safety. I balance contact with each partner while advocating for the relationship. In family work, I employ a systemic non-pathologizing approach. I believe the family has come in for help in becoming more skilled at working out its core issues.
Whether we are working on communication, developmental issues, or intimacy, the client is the expert on themselves and I am the expert on the process of uncovering and working towards the therapeutic goals.