My approach
My work is influenced by two main schools of therapy:
Existential Psychology ~ Contemporary Experiential & Psychodynamic Psychotherapies
What these approaches have in common is an emphasis on gaining a more "full expression of our experience" - meaning having access to our minds (thoughts), emotions, and body simultaneously. When we have access to this fuller expression, issues like anxiety, depression, and trauma are able to be either processed OR we can find ways to move beyond our suffering into a more valued life. We get to move through OR move beyond what is keeping us stuck.
In my practice, there is one other piece I focus heavily on - Relationships. We, as humans, are profoundly social creatures. I see relationships as central to how we understand our world and gain meaning. Positive and honest relationships, including the therapy relationship, allow for healing and growth. I believe truly caring for people is about listening, but also engaging with them in an honest way. People don't generally come to therapy because things are working well, so I think one of the most caring things I can do is help them have a new type of experience. Clients often say they can tell I am listening to more than just what they say, but also how they say it. Commonly clients tell me that I tend to point out when someone is saying something but not feeling it. I also get consistent feedback that I am skilled at challenging a person on something that is not working and doing so in a kind but direct manner.
Existential Psychology ~ Contemporary Experiential & Psychodynamic Psychotherapies
What these approaches have in common is an emphasis on gaining a more "full expression of our experience" - meaning having access to our minds (thoughts), emotions, and body simultaneously. When we have access to this fuller expression, issues like anxiety, depression, and trauma are able to be either processed OR we can find ways to move beyond our suffering into a more valued life. We get to move through OR move beyond what is keeping us stuck.
In my practice, there is one other piece I focus heavily on - Relationships. We, as humans, are profoundly social creatures. I see relationships as central to how we understand our world and gain meaning. Positive and honest relationships, including the therapy relationship, allow for healing and growth. I believe truly caring for people is about listening, but also engaging with them in an honest way. People don't generally come to therapy because things are working well, so I think one of the most caring things I can do is help them have a new type of experience. Clients often say they can tell I am listening to more than just what they say, but also how they say it. Commonly clients tell me that I tend to point out when someone is saying something but not feeling it. I also get consistent feedback that I am skilled at challenging a person on something that is not working and doing so in a kind but direct manner.