Services
Individual Psychotherapy
Psychological stressors can have a large impact on one's daily functioning - from disrupted sleep and feeling increasingly irritable to noticing more struggles within relationships and changes in your mood. There are countless ways these stressors can effect daily life; the task of identifying them and putting them into words can be a challenge.
Individual therapy can provide the safety needed for self-exploration and for support in times of stress. I believe this safety is created through a trusting therapeutic alliance, and I rely heavily on that relationship in my practice. I work collaboratively with clients, supporting growth, self-discovery, and change as well as building awareness of barriers that keep us stuck in painful patterns.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
EMDR is an evidence-based treatment that is highly effective in creating permanent change for clients who struggle with anxiety and depression, loneliness and grief, low self-esteem, trauma, relationship struggles, and self-regulation. Through this work, clients approach painful memories, address present triggers, as well as resource change for the future. EMDR focuses not only on what we think and feel about ourselves but also how our bodies hold those feelings - a link between emotional well-being and our body’s somatic/physical state.
I practice Relational EMDR Therapy, which relies heavily on the relationship between therapist and client. I am not only an observer in clients’ journeys but also a witness alongside them. My presence and attunement allows for clients to be in connection and not left alone with difficult feelings. Relational EMDR is not just about symptom relief; it’s about sustained change and growth.
Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy
Children express themselves through their play; it's how they make sense of the world. Similarly in therapy, play can be used to help children make sense of their feelings and the complicated situations they may face.
Adolescents can also struggle with identifying their feelings within the context of their increasingly complicated social world. Developmentally, a major task during adolescence is individuation - developing one's sense of self as separate from their family of origin. A supportive therapeutic relationship can provide the freedom to safely identify and explore one's feelings, leading to a clearer sense of self, self-worth, and self-acceptance.
I also understand that a supportive alliance isn't always formed simply through sitting and talking. I draw on "whatever works" with older children and adolescents to help them talk about what is on their minds. This may include drawing, writing, playing games, listening to music, and other activities. Aspects of play therapy can be useful across all ages.
Parent Consultation
Since children do not come with an instruction manual, challenges will often arise that leave parents feeling overwhelmed and sometimes isolated. I meet with parents individually or together as a couple to explore these challenges in a safe and supportive environment.
I am also a trained facilitator in Circle of Security Parenting – a program that helps parents of young children identify and understand their child’s emotional needs. It helps parents better support their child as he or she learns to manage their own feelings, and it enhances their child’s self-esteem. I do this work individually with parents. You can learn more about Circle of Security by visiting their website: www.circleofsecurityinternational.com
Clinical Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Grief/Loss
Adjustment Issues
Relationship Issues
Trauma
Low Self-Esteem
Divorce
Parenting Concerns
Work Concerns
School Concerns
Impulsivity
Behavior Management