My Approach to Helping
I have a background in Integrative and client-centered psychotherapy. I use mindfulness-bodyfulness (somatic) interventions as well as an eclectic combination of approaches. I consider myself a fellow traveler and value the innate wisdom of my clients. I believe therapy with adults involves a "re-parenting" or "re-attachment" process whereby clients learn to accept and understand themselves more fully. I welcome the entirety of your experience and actively support your transformation, emphasizing 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 challenging and directive while respecting your self-agency and wisdom.
With couples, there is a need for emotional honesty and a sense of safety. I balance advocating for your relationship while supporting you both.
In family work, I work systemically. My understanding is that you have come to me for help in becoming more skilled at working on your underlying needs as a family.
I love working with kids. Childhood is a time for adventures, learning, play, developing social-emotional intelligence, and experimentation. It's also fraught. Social media and technology have changed the way we parent and the way kids experience themselves and the world. As a fellow parent, I am right there with you trying to figure this all out. I work with kids as full human beings who deserve my respect and need to feel safe and valued.
Whether we are working on communication, intimacy, developmental issues and attachment, or simply greater self-acceptance, you are the expert in terms of your needs and goals, and I am here to promote and support your process.