Approach

My approach is integrative, relational, and person-centered. This means we will work collaboratively to meet your unique needs. I believe that you are the expert of your life, and will start by getting to know you.

 

I also believe that an essential part of therapy is working with a therapist who you connect with. I will bring my own authenticity and humor to our sessions, and encourage you to do the same. My clients have shared that our sessions feel comfortable and validating, and that I have helped them to think in new ways.

 

We may focus on enhancing your sense of self, shifting perspectives, processing difficult experiences, overcoming unhelpful behaviors, tapping into your strengths, acquiring new skills, and navigating life’s challenges while celebrating its joys.

 

As an anti-oppressive therapist, I find it essential to recognize how relationships, society, and systems of oppression impact an individual’s mental health. I'm a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, and I’m an affirming therapist with a passion for supporting LGBTQIA+ clients. As a clinician, I am constantly expanding my knowledge and expertise through continuing education and trainings related to my clients. 

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My clients are often coming to therapy looking for support with their self-image and self-esteem, navigating life stressors and relationships, taking care of their own needs, accepting and regulating their emotions, and understanding how their past experiences contribute to their current challenges. I have specific experience and training related to depression, eating disorders, trauma in children and teenagers,  medical illness, grief, and supporting LGBTQIA+ clients. 

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Some specific approaches I use:

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• Art Therapy

  • As a Board-Certified Art Therapist, I can guide you in using art to explore emotions and experiences in ways that words cannot always capture. Art therapy can lead to deeper insights, regardless of your age or artistic ability. Art Therapy is just one option and making art is never required in our work together.​​ Read more about art therapy here.

• DBT​

  • I am trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for adolescents. DBT is a type of therapy that is effective for individuals who have difficulty regulating their emotions. It is especially helpful for anyone who relies on harmful behaviors to cope with frequent feelings of distress, as it offers many new skills to manage these feelings. When incorporating DBT, our sessions will still feel individualized and relational in nature. 

• TF-CBT​

  • Additionally, I am trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). TF-CBT is an evidence-based, structured method of trauma processing that is effective for children and teenagers who experience distress, feelings of guilt, and other mental health symptoms as a result of traumatic experiences. After completing TF-CBT, clients can continue to engage in individual psychotherapy if indicated. Read more about my approach to therapy for trauma and PTSD here.