I believe that the start of change is through self-awareness! Being aware of triggers from past wounds may guide people at a conscious level to explore an understanding of what is occurring at their unconscious level. Unconscious memories from past wounds can at times control and influence someone\'s current thought patterns, emotions and behaviors. Processing past wounds in therapy may give you more control over problematic cognitive, behavioral, and emotional patterns. I believe that people are doing the best that they can do with what they have learned.

According to philosopher John Locke\'s theory of tabula rasa, infants are born as a blank slate. Adults were conditioned or taught by their environments and caregivers to think, believe, adapt, cope and behave in certain ways. Through therapy and family mapping, you can become aware of what such ways are. Although some old coping mechanisms may have been useful in adapting and surviving in the past, you may find that such coping skills are not working as well in the present. It is understandable that you may feel security in using old coping mechanisms as they may have protected you from hurt in the past. There may be comfort in using learned coping strategies as they are familiar, automatic and safe.

Change and creating new adaptations can feel threatening, unfamiliar, frightening and manifest anxiety. Just know that you are not alone! My role as your therapist is to bring your old coping skills and maladaptive thought patterns which are no longer as effective to your awareness, while making the process of change and development of new adaptations a nonthreatening experience. For many, therapy is a new unknown experience. My goal of therapy is to work with you in meeting your goals and placing myself in your shoes. Each session is conducted at your pace and your own growth. I provide my patients with a safe place in which they can share their vulnerable thoughts and feelings when exploring past hurts and resentments that stem from their family of origin without any criticism and judgment.