Therapeutic Style
If you’re anything like me, you’re plagued with indecisiveness due to the abundance of choices we have today. A simple zip code search for therapists on Psychology Today can yield hundreds of results. For me, I typically have an easier time identifying what I don’t want than what I’m specifically looking for. Just ask my partner when she suggests something for dinner.
That being said here is what I’m not:
I’m not judgemental- we’ve all done or said things that we aren’t proud of. Myself included. The most important thing is that we are learning and growing from our past.
I’m not robotic. As a client of therapy, I never connected with therapists that provided minimal feedback and never engaged in any self-disclosure. I believe that the strength of the therapeutic relationship drives the efficacy of therapy. When it is clinically appropriate, I incorporate my personal experiences utilizing evidence-based practices to overcome personal challenges.
I’m not oblivious to my privileges. As a white therapist, I understand that I need to be diligent about doing my own anti-racist work. When working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, I practice cultural humility. I’m a firm believer that institutional racism causes extensive trauma and as a trauma-informed provider, I believe I am responsible for my part in dismantling systemic racism.
My Approach
Person-Centered
We work on what you want to work on. I don’t have an agenda and this is your time to process the things you need/want to process. However, if you struggle with digging deep, I’m comfortable taking on a more assertive approach.
Feminist
This theoretical orientation in therapy believes that the power differential in therapy is not necessary or therapeutically beneficial. I will never position myself as an expert, will readily admit when I have made a mistake, and will bring my authentic self to our sessions.
Multicultural
I believe that human beings are multifaceted. I believe that in order to best understand someone, it is important to seek an understanding of their cultural context. Systemic racism, white supremacy, homophobia, and misogyny negatively impact mental health- and must be considered when providing mental health services.
Psychodynamic
I think that the things we have experienced in the past can affect us in the present moment. We all carry things with us, chucking around the proverbial backpack full of painful memories, shame, trauma, regrets, and hurt. Sometimes the backpack gets too heavy- that’s where therapy comes in. We can unpack all that crap together. It won’t be easy, but it will be worth it.
Humanistic
It is easier to add something than to subtract! The Humanistic approach focuses on strength and resilience building rather than focusing on what is “wrong” with you. Learning to love ourselves and hold compassion for ourselves is a key ingredient to living a healthy, full life.
Trauma-Informed Somatic Interventions
I am certified in accelerated resolution therapy, an evidence-based practice for healing trauma and other mental health concerns. Please click here for additional information about what ART therapy is and how we can use it to work through trauma and other concerns together!
