APPROACH
I understand that it takes a lot of courage to begin the process of therapy, so I work to create a safe and non-judgmental space for my clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I appreciate the uniqueness of each client's experience and strive to meet each client where he or she is at. I collaborate with my clients to create a treatment approach that is flexible, effective, and aligned with their goals for change and healing.
I believe each of us has an intrinsic capacity for wellness and wholeness. When we are in this centered, balanced place, we experience our authentic sense of self. Past traumatic experiences, current stressors, or biological vulnerabilities can disconnect us from this place of health and balance, and we notice that we "just don't feel like ourselves." We may find ourselves confused by our actions, struggling to make decisions, attempting to distract ourselves from our own thoughts, or overwhelmed by strong feelings.
Clients often come to therapy with questions about why they are feeling what they’re feeling, thinking what they’re thinking, or doing what they’re doing. I believe that all of those answers exist within each one of us. I help clients develop a stronger connection to and trust in their internal wisdom to find the answers for which they have been searching. I work with clients to increase their understanding of themselves and find greater peace and acceptance of all parts of them, even the parts that have caused distress, hurt, or confusion. With greater clarity, insight, and compassion, both growth and healing can occur naturally. Clients often report experiencing a sense of wholeness, integration, and reconnection to themselves.
Training
I hold a Master’s Degree in Counseling from Adler University and a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Davidson College. I have trained extensively in Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy and primarily utilize this model in my work with individuals and couples. I have served on the training staff for Level 1 and Level 2 IFS trainings. My therapeutic approach is also influenced by my training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness and Body-Centered approaches, and Attachment Theory.
clinical areas of expertise
- anxiety
- depression
- eating disorders/body image issues
- grief + loss
- trauma
- identity + self-esteem issues
- relationship concerns