about me

As a trauma-informed therapist, I approach every client with the assumption that trauma is part of their story, and there are several reasons for this. Traumatic experiences are extremely common, and many survivors do not immediately disclose their history. Consequently, even the most well-intentioned therapeutic interventions can be retraumatizing, so my priorities in every session are safety, collaboration, empowerment, and choice. If you would like to know more about trauma-informed care, please visit the FAQs or click LEARN MORE below.

In addition to being trauma-informed, I have an integrative approach, which means I prefer to borrow and combine elements from multiple therapeutic models, instead of limiting myself to just one. This strategy allows me to adapt my treatment plan to my clients' unique needs, strengths, and preferences. Gilbert et. al. (2011) refers to integrative therapy as a "unifying approach and multi-dimensional relational framework that can be created anew for each individual." The following is a list of my preferred treatment models:

1. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): This method involves learning to control thoughts and change fundamental beliefs in order to reduce symptoms and problematic behaviors. I am certified in several evidence-based practices (as defined in the FAQs) with foundations in CBT, including Trauma-Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT).
2. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) focuses on building psychological flexibility and learning to accept distressing thoughts and feelings, instead of trying to control or eliminate them. ACT also emphasizes using core values as the guide to a meaningful life. If you would like to know more about ACT, please click LEARN MORE below.
3. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) has many components, including mindfulness (staying present and observing feelings without judgment) and distress tolerance (skills for coping with intense emotions). 
4. Psychodynamic therapy: This is the traditional form of psychotherapy; the interventions are intended to facilitate insight and self-awareness, unmask the unconscious, examine underlying drives and defense mechanisms, and achieve self-actualization, among many other things. Psychodynamic therapy is effective for clients with problematic interpersonal relationships, unresolved conflict within their family of origin, unmet developmental needs from childhood, and avoidant or insecure attachment styles (just to name a few). To learn more about psychodynamic therapy, please click LEARN MORE below.
5. Humanistic: This approach falls under the "psychodynamic" umbrella; the interventions include expression of empathy, active listening, and unconditional positive regard; goals include building a strong therapeutic alliance, promoting self-acceptance, and facilitating personal growth.
6. Existential: This approach also falls under the "psychodynamic" umbrella; it involves helping clients search for meaning, embrace both freedom and responsibility, and confront mortality.

 If you would like to know more about integrative psychotherapy, please click LEARN MORE below.