My Philosophy and Approach
When we experience life challenges, difficult and confusing symptoms of poor mental health may result. If the roots of these symptoms aren't addressed, we can feel stuck. I help clients move beyond coping with symptoms by working through the root causes of symptoms for long-term improvement.
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I don't exclusively practice one form of therapy. Instead, I combine concepts and strategies from several types of therapy in a wholistic way to meet the needs, strengths, and unique concerns of clients.
ISSUES
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- Anxiety
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Depression & mood disorders
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Trauma & PTSD
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Religious trauma
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Regulating emotions and anger
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Existential concerns (e.g. purpose, meaning, identity, life direction)
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Relationship issues
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LGBTQ+ issues
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Suicide and self-harm
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Self-worth
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Grief
CLIENTELE
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Adults of all ages
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Youth 13+
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LGBTQ+ individuals
cognitive behavioral therapy
CBT focuses on challenging and changing negative thinking and associated behaviors and emotions. It is based on the idea that unhelpful beliefs and behaviors play a role in the development and maintenance of mental health issues.
acceptance and commitment therapy
ACT emphasizes acceptance of negative thoughts, feelings, sensations, and memories. There is also an emphasis on being present with what life brings, and moving toward one's values and what is meaningful despite suffering.
eye movement desensitization & reprocessing
EMDR is used primarily in the treatment of trauma, but it is also useful in addressing other issues such as anxiety and depression. Generally, troubling memories are recalled and explored while eye movements are performed to help in processing the memories. The goal is to reduce distress and make peace with past experiences.
internal family systems
IFS is based on the idea that the mind is made up of multiple parts (emotional states, aspects of our personalities, competing wants and desires...). Parts may be extreme or in conflict with other parts, causing distress and confusion. The goal of IFS is to create a cooperative and trusting relationship between a person and their parts.
existential therapy
Existential therapy focuses on the human condition and the struggles that come with it, such as isolation, death, and purpose. It emphasizes how mental health struggles are often a predictable part of being human. Focus is placed more on navigating the challenges of life and finding meaning.
emotion focused therapy
EFT is based on the belief that human emotions are connected to human needs, and if emotions are fully felt and expressed, we can more easily move on from negative emotional states. Also, when we listen to our emotions, we can make more informed choices and improve relationships.