The relationship between any counselor and client is key. Building that genuine connection is absolutely part of our work. In fact, research repeatedly shows that that client-therapist relationship is one of the largest single factors to impact the efficacy of therapy.
However, I do not sit and just nod, repeating what you are saying. Rather, I work with you to identify and change what does not work for you or your life and work with you to figure out how to get you the life you want.
I want for you to see results and strengthen how you see yourself as a resource.
What We Work On
Some clients come in for a “tune-up,” just wanting a little bit of support around a particular issue, while others want to deepen their self-awareness or to unpack and reconnect how they see the world.
Commonly, though, I may work with a client who is needing support with
- major life changes such as a break-up or wanting a new job
- substance use recovery
- relationship issues (infidelity, communication, anger, outbursts, addictions, grief, premarital)
- their relationship with their body, food, and/or exercise
- revisiting a difficult relationship in their lives
- understanding or processing emotions. This may include depression, anxiety, anger, mood swings, hopelessness, insecurity, jealousy, or discomfort with one’s body.
And of course, I work with trauma. I say “of course” because trauma can completely shift how we see ourselves, how we see the world, or how we connect with others. Trauma is commonly the source of our triggers. Trauma also can stir up when we are least expecting it.
Who I See
The range of *who* I see is wide:
People in adulthood, with a vast age range.
People who feel lonely.
People who want support getting the kind of relationships that they crave.
People who are struggling to just “keep up” with life’s pressures.
People who put a lot of pressure on themselves.
People who are seeking healthier habits and relationships.
People who feel marginalized in their identities.
People whose lives feel like they’re crashing down.
People who are single and people in relationships.
People who wish they were parenting in a way that resonates more with who they are.
Techniques Used
While my approach is influenced by Gestalt and existential therapy, I use evidence-based techniques to help my clients feel immediate and longterm results. These include mindfulness, breathing, visualizing, emotional regulation, cognitive-behavior (CBT) approaches, and affirmations. I gently challenge my clients as appropriate. I work from a HAES and body positivity approach when it comes to body image.
Some clients find that “homework” from therapy is really helpful for them to stay accountable and to see changes in their lives. I’m not a worksheet therapist (and I love and admire those who are), but I am happy to suggest ways to play with the ideas of therapy in your own life.
I help clients rethink particular stories and beliefs. I help my clients stay grounded in their bodies and connect with their thoughts and feelings.
I do offer EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). Learn more about my EMDR services here.