My Approach to Helping
Being the victim of childhood trauma or narcissistic abuse can contribute to a wide range of physical, emotional, and psychological symptoms. It can also make it difficult for you to trust others and maintain healthy relationships. Trauma and abuse of this nature becomes stored in the body, and may result in you feeling triggered, and suffering from mood swings, depression, and perhaps even feelings of guilt or shame.
I specialize in EMDR therapy to help you heal from trauma, narcissistic abuse, and the symptoms of depression and anxiety often associated with these conditions. I utilize a mind-body approach to healing that helps you identify where these triggers and emotions are felt in your body. I have 24 years of experience working with adults and adolescents. I am a licensed psychologist, neuropsychological expert, certified brain health coach, and trauma therapist. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) through the EMDR International Association (EMDRIA), and I am trained in clinical hypnosis through the American Society of Clinical Hypnosis (ASCH). My professional background includes 12 years of clinical experience in the family court system and in shelters for battered women and children. I am a former team member of the Epilepsy Unit of the Department of Neuroscience and Behavioral Medicine at Phoenix Children’s Hospital. For a decade, I conducted forensic neuropsychological evaluations of inmates in prison and testified in court about my findings.
As a researcher, I have spent decades studying the manner in which brainwave patterns impact our thoughts, feelings, and behavior, and I have extensive experience helping individuals achieve peak performance by optimizing their brain functioning. I am a published author and speaker on topics related to brain functioning. I have television and news experience and have been featured as a psychological expert on multiple local and national news networks including FOX News.
As a client of mine, you will have access to all of my online courses, programs, eBooks, guided meditations, brainwave audios, and hypnosis audios. I created these resources to help you recover from trauma, condition your thoughts, eliminate depression and anxiety, and rewire your brain for success and happiness.
More Info About My Practice
In my therapy practice, I offer a holistic approach to healing and personal growth, drawing from a combination of specialized techniques and my background as a trained neuropsychologist. I am dedicated to helping individuals overcome the challenges they face, particularly those related to trauma, stress, narcissistic abuse, and emotional well-being.
One of the primary therapeutic modalities I employ is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). EMDR is a powerful technique that utilizes bilateral stimulation, such as side-to-side eye movements, to transform the way traumatic memories are stored in the brain. This method has proven to be effective in alleviating the emotional distress associated with trauma, enabling individuals to successfully process trauma memories and heal from these experiences.
In addition to EMDR, I integrate somatic or mind-body approaches into my practice. Somatic therapy recognizes that our life experiences are not only stored in our minds but also in our bodies. By focusing on both the physical sensations within the body and engaging in meaningful discussions, we create a comprehensive therapeutic environment. I incorporate various somatic techniques, including grounding exercises, breathwork, increased body awareness, and boundary strengthening, to help individuals reconnect with their bodies, release tension, and enhance their overall well-being.
Furthermore, my background in neuropsychology equips me with a deep understanding of the intricate connection between our neuropsychological functioning, biology, emotions, and behavior. I assist my clients in comprehending how these elements intersect and influence their lives. By addressing thought patterns and behaviors, we work together to condition thought processes, ultimately rewiring the brain to create new neuropathways that promote adaptive behaviors, happiness, and success.
I believe in the transformative power of therapy and the potential for profound personal growth. My goal is to provide a safe and supportive space for individuals to explore their inner worlds, heal from past wounds, and develop the tools and insights needed to live more fulfilling lives. Whether you are dealing with trauma, stress, or seeking personal development, I am here to support you on your journey towards positive change and greater well-being.
Specific Issue(s) I'm Skilled at Helping With
I possess a wealth of expertise in effectively addressing the complex issue of narcissistic abuse. Through extensive published resources, including audios, videos, and The Narcissistic Abuse Survival Tool Kit, I have empowered countless individuals to embark on their journey towards healing from the trauma of narcissistic abuse. This form of abuse often leaves individuals feeling bewildered, isolated, and trapped in a perpetual cycle of walking on eggshells. My approach is rooted in fostering a deep understanding of the covert tactics employed by narcissists, such as gaslighting, manipulation, projection, and DARVO (Deny, Attack, Reverse Victim and Offender). I guide clients in learning to establish and maintain healthy boundaries, a crucial step towards reclaiming their lives. Furthermore, I incorporate EMDR therapy to support individuals in coping with the effects of a narcissistic relationship and, when necessary, summoning the inner strength to break free from it.
Additionally, I specialize in helping individuals heal from trauma associated with abuse, neglect, unexpected life events, relationship struggles, and toxic family dynamics. I utilize EMDR to change the way these trauma memories are stored in the brain and body. This ultimately serves to reduce and eliminate flashbacks, nightmares, avoidance issues and other trauma symptoms. My approach to trauma healing also involves restoring self-love and self-confidence so you may live a life of joy and meaning.
How Psychotherapy Can Help
Psychotherapy serves as a transformative journey towards emotional and mental well-being. It offers a path to reduce the burdens of depression, anxiety, and trauma, providing individuals with tools to navigate these challenges effectively. Through psychotherapy, one can embark on a profound journey of self-discovery, restoring self-esteem, renewing self-love, and bolstering self-confidence. It equips individuals with the invaluable skill of setting and maintaining appropriate boundaries, which is essential for healthy relationships. Whether it involves improving existing relationships or finding the strength to leave toxic ones, psychotherapy guides individuals through the complexities of interpersonal dynamics. At the heart of my therapeutic approach lies the recognition of the mind-body connection, enabling clients to release trauma stored within their bodies and ultimately rediscover a sense of peace and equilibrium in their lives.
My View on the Purpose of Psychotherapy
The core purpose of psychotherapy extends beyond the surface of alleviating troubling emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. While psychotherapy is designed to reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, and stress, its greater role is to foster a collaborative journey with the therapist that results in greater emotional well-being. Through psychotherapy, individuals gain insight into their blind spots and negative behavioral patterns that might otherwise go unnoticed. With the guidance of a trained therapist, the ultimate goal is to reach a profound state of purpose, meaning, and happiness in life, making each day feel more effortless and fulfilling.
What I Love about Being a Psychotherapist
What I cherish most about being a psychotherapist is the profound connection and relationship formed with my clients. It's a privilege to walk alongside individuals as they embark on their journey of personal growth and transformation. Witnessing clients overcome formidable obstacles, whether it's trauma or depression, and guiding them toward a place of peace and tranquility is incredibly rewarding. I'm passionate about helping people rewire their thought patterns for greater success and well-being. Each day, I consider it an honor to hear the life stories and struggles of my clients and to play a role in their healing journey.
How My Own Struggles Made Me a Better Therapist
My background as a licensed psychologist and a trauma survivor uniquely positions me to offer compassionate and effective support to individuals who have experienced trauma. My personal journey through trauma has given me firsthand insight into the complex and often challenging process of healing. This, combined with my education and professional experience, enables me to approach therapy with deep empathy, understanding, and a genuine connection to my clients' experiences. I believe in the power of resilience and the potential for growth in the face of adversity, and I am dedicated to helping survivors on their path to recovery and empowerment.
