SPECIALTIES
Anxiety & Depression
My approach to treating anxiety and depression is rooted in collaborative treatment planning, where both clients and I work together to set mutually agreed-upon and achievable goals that align with their unique needs. I firmly believe in empowering clients to recognize and embrace their innate ability to regain control of their lives, all while being supported by an environment rich in unconditional positive regard, deep empathy, and genuine authenticity. I often utilize a psychodynamic approach to help clients delve into their past experiences and explore how these events influence their current thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. This deeper understanding of the self, along with examining unconscious processes, can be pivotal in the transformative journey toward individuation and self-actualization. Additionally, I integrate Mindfulness-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (MCBT) techniques to assist clients in identifying and changing unhealthy automatic thought patterns through mindfulness practices, along with incorporating EMDR therapy to effectively process and heal from trauma. This thoughtful combination allows for a comprehensive and personalized approach to fostering lasting mental wellness and resilience.
Couples | Partners
Couples therapy is a specialized form of psychotherapy designed specifically to help partners enhance and nurture their relationship by addressing underlying issues and improving communication skills. In our sessions together, I work collaboratively with both/all partners to identify and deeply understand patterns of behavior that contribute to conflict and misunderstandings, and together we develop practical strategies to strengthen the overall relationship. We will incorporate the Gottman Method, known for its effectiveness, alongside Emotion-Focused Therapy techniques to provide a structured and supportive approach to improving relationship dynamics. The Gottman Method offers evidence-based tools that help manage conflict effectively and build a solid foundation for the relationship, while Emotion-Focused Therapy encourages partners to explore and express their emotions in a deeply meaningful way. This therapeutic process is genuinely collaborative, with each partner actively participating in their own personal growth and the shared development of the relationship. Through a supportive, non-judgmental therapeutic relationship, couples can learn to communicate more effectively, cultivate a greater sense of empathy, and build a more fulfilling emotional connection with one another. My approach provides a safe, inclusive, shame-free, and judgment-free environment where partners can explore a variety of aspects of their relationship, including sexual identity, personal history, past experiences, and even their fantasies. I proudly offer an inclusive space that celebrates and supports all relationship dynamics, including monogamous partnerships, polyamory, kink, and beyond, ensuring that every couple feels valued and understood.
LGBTQ+ COMMUNITY
LGBTQ+ therapy is a specialized and highly focused form of psychotherapy that has been designed specifically to address the unique needs and specific experiences of individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, or questioning. The primary goal of LGBTQ+ therapy is to create and provide a safe, supportive, and affirming environment where clients feel comfortable to openly explore and address issues related to their sexual orientation or gender identity. In the context of LGBTQ+ therapy, I work collaboratively with clients to navigate the distinct challenges and varied experiences associated with being a part of the LGBTQ+ community. This may include important topics such as dealing with discrimination, going through the coming out process, navigating relationships and dating, processing religious trauma, coping with family rejection, and managing mental health concerns such as anxiety and depression. As an identified member of the LGBTQ+ community myself, I feel confident in my ability to offer deeply empathetic and effective support for my clients. I have extensive experience working with clients from diverse cultural backgrounds and am wholeheartedly dedicated to assisting individuals in embracing and celebrating their authentic selves. Through our therapeutic relationship, clients can gain greater self-awareness, develop effective coping skills, and build resilience and strength that will serve them well throughout their lives. My approach includes an important intersectional perspective, which recognizes and honors how various forms of marginalization, privilege, and power dynamics impact individuals within the LGBTQ+ community. This allows us to address the multiple layers of possible oppression they may face in society.
Teens | Adolescents
Teen therapy is a specialized form of psychotherapy specifically designed to assist adolescents in navigating the often complex and confusing challenges of this transformative life stage. Adolescence can be marked by significant hormonal changes, increasing academic pressures, evolving social dynamics, and a wide range of emotional issues that can feel overwhelming at times. Through teen therapy, I provide a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental environment where young individuals can openly explore their thoughts, feelings, and personal experiences, particularly those related to their sexual and/or gender identity. With substantial experience working with teenagers on issues such as self-expression, emotional regulation, effective communication skills, and understanding their gender and sexual identity, I employ an emotion-focused and insight-oriented approach. This therapeutic method places a strong emphasis on helping teens understand and manage their emotions in a healthier, more adaptive way, encouraging self-discovery and personal growth. Rather than imposing change from the outside, I strive to empower and support each teen, motivating them to make positive, lasting changes in their lives. This thoughtful approach helps ensure that the positive improvements they achieve extend beyond the therapy room, playing a crucial role in their overall development into responsible, productive, and empowered adults.
TRAUMA
As a trained EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapist, I incorporate this highly effective, evidence-based modality into my comprehensive treatment approach for clients who are grappling with trauma, anxiety, phobias, and other distressing experiences that impact their quality of life. EMDR therapy is designed to help clients effectively process and reframe traumatic memories, allowing them to heal from emotional wounds that might otherwise continue to persist and negatively affect their daily lives. I work in close collaboration with clients to identify specific memories or triggers that require processing and guide them through various bilateral stimulation techniques, such as targeted eye movements or rhythmic tapping, to facilitate the brain's natural healing process. This thoughtful and supportive approach helps clients significantly reduce the intensity of disturbing memories, gain valuable new insights, and develop healthier coping mechanisms. Ultimately, this empowers them to move forward in their lives with greater resilience, emotional stability, and a renewed sense of well-being.