Psychotherapy

Treatment Approach

My passion is helping others overcome adversity through authentic self-expression and safe, meaningful connection. I view problems through an intersectional feminist framework and use cognitive behavioral interventions that help my clients manage overwhelming emotions, change self-destructive habits, improve personal relationships, and feel more in control of their lives. I look at the social, political, economic, environmental, and biological components of mental health problems, as well as the psychological. I see growth-fostering relationships as a source of empowerment, and build a collaborative therapeutic space with my clients so that they can translate what happens in session to every facet of their life.

Breaking the Trauma Cycle

While every person’s therapy journey is unique, I notice a theme in each case. My clients break cycles that kept them trapped in a life that didn’t feel like their own. These cycles are repeating patterns of behavior and thought that are self-destructive. They can come from experiencing collective trauma like oppression, natural disasters, poverty, war, or pandemics. They can come from experiencing individual trauma like sexual violence, abusive relationships, or a near death experience. They can come from vicarious trauma, generational trauma, or simply not having a safe and supportive person available to help you co-regulate through hard times. These cycles may manifest as eating disorders, substance use disorders, personality disorders, or mood disorders. I think of therapy as having 2 parts- understanding (identify the cycle) and changing (break it). 

Moving Through Trauma

As a trauma survivor myself, I have found trauma is not something you get over, but something you move through. We’ll start with the changes you’d like to see in your life right now. Having a supportive person you feel understood by allows you to safely explore how your past experiences impact your current challenges. I often use dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) techniques to develop mindfulness, emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness skills. I may also suggest narrative therapy exercises that allow you to articulate your experiences and integrate their meaning. As we work together, you will clarify your values and learn to live them authentically in the present. I advocate a holistic approach that honors the mind-body connection, and may incorporate yoga, breath work, and movement into treatment. Your therapeutic process should reflect and develop your unique strengths, and I welcome feedback throughout our work together.