Here are some of the foundational elements that inform my work as a psychotherapist:
Social Justice
We exist in a specific context, in this time and place at the intersection of a variety of social identities. Our race, gender, sexuality, ethnicity, class, and spirituality are the foundational elements upon which our psyches are built. Just as terroir shapes the flavor of grapes, so too these foundations shape us. I believe passionately that difference and uniqueness make us stronger, as individuals and a society. As a white clinician I am aware of my own privilege and the whiteness of this whole field of psychotherapy.
Client-Centered
This means you know best as the client what feels right to you. If I am going too fast, too slow, or not quite getting it somehow I want to know. It is my intention to co-create a therapy that works for you. I am open to your feedback and support your agency.
Relational & Attachment-Based
I believe meaningful attachments to others are vital to our health and well-being. Attachment theory tells us that we are biologically hard-wired to seek connection, and that we are shaped by our relationships. Our work will probably include talking about your early childhood relationships, your current relationships and our relationship. Research about the effectiveness of psychotherapy indicates that the relationship created is itself part of the healing process. I work to co-create relationships with my clients, which are non-judgmental, responsive, accepting, honest and human.
Mindfulness
Our work can include guided meditations, or I may offer simple mindfulness exercises as a way to cope with anxiety or invite the self-compassion and non-judgement so needed for the work of self-acceptance and integration that takes place in therapy.
Wholeness & Dynamism
I believe each human is unique, that “normal” is a problematic idea and much of the work of healing is based in self-acceptance. Yet, most of us learn early on that some parts of ourselves are preferable to others. I offer curiosity and compassion to the process of integrating your full, dynamic self. I will open a safe space for you to find a sense of wholeness, and find the parts of you that you have been missing or shunning.