My Approach:

I believe that most patterns that hold us back were once useful strategies to survive difficult experiences. Understanding what has shaped us can help us stop beating ourselves up, freeing up energy to make change. But for things to change outside of therapy, we have to be willing to experiment with new ways of thinking, feeling, and acting. That’s scary, and I’m here for you!

The foundation of this work is a safe and stable relationship. I build trust by being myself, deeply listening, and reflecting what I hear to make sure I’ve “got it.” I try to be aware of how my identities and experiences may differ from or intersect with yours, and how this may lead to assumptions or misunderstandings. I have training in and commitment to LGBTQIA-affirmative practice, as well as recognizing how racism, fat phobia, and other forms of oppression affect wellness. I’m committed to being non-defensive and accountable if (when) I make mistakes.

Our sessions will look different depending on your needs and preferences. Much growth can be achieved through talking, but sometimes, trauma gets stuck in our bodies. Then, movement, breathing, or drawing might be more helpful. I am trained in EMDR , which can process trauma remarkably quickly. I integrate Internal Family Systems, which helps us build more caring and constructive relationships with our emotions, patterns, and reactions. Sometimes, we need new tools to deal with crises and live by our values. In that case, I can teach mindfulness, coping, communication, and other skills. We’ll move at your pace and continue to evaluate if our time together is helpful. 

No matter what we do, laughter will show up in therapy. I’ve seen how humor can get us through hard times and gently nudge us to see things differently. And it’s just more fun that way (yes, therapy can be fun).

I can help you with:

• Anxiety

• Family & Relationship Challenges

• Exploring and Affirming your Gender Identity or Sexual Orientation

• Grief & Loss

• Perfectionism and Over-Work

• Trauma (including Sexual Trauma)