My Approach

Therapy works by learning to open up and talk about difficult problems, process painful emotions, and to explore areas of vulnerability while trying out new behaviors. Since it is often necessary to go into these areas to experience true healing, I always make it my first priority to create a warm, safe, and nurturing place. To facilitate this process I accept and never judge what people discuss. Compassion and understanding are my guiding principles.

After people begin to explore difficult problems and emotions, then other techniques or approaches might be used to make changes. Since every person is unique, I strive to match the approach to the individual. There are 4 facets or sides that inform the way I practice: intuitive/creative, rational/scientific, practical, and psychodynamic.

I use my intuitive/creative side to tune into what may lay beneath outer problems. This side can facilitate presence, observation, and curiosity about internal experiences or reactions to situations and events (rather than getting caught up or stuck in the reaction, they pass through you). I use this side to draw out your creative, intuitive depths. From this perspective I often borrow from my training at the CG Jung Institute in San Francisco, where I completed my internship.

My rational/scientific side is grounded in the latest, most advanced forms of clinical research into the mind or inner world of people, especially regarding what promotes healthy change. I am well versed in the latest science in conducting effective therapy. From here, I may apply any of the newest cognitive and behavioral approaches to identify hidden thoughts and beliefs that are getting in the way; or I may help to develop motivation to face obstacles that have been avoided using the most recent behavioral interventions.

I also use my practical side during Therapy sessions. While reflection is welcomed and encouraged, I can be interactive and practical in my approach. I do not just sit there saying nothing while you feel uncomfortable and do not know what to say. I help search and explore what is going on inside to get to the heart of things, to find answers.

My psychodynamic side spots areas where past, unfinished issues are still active. The past is what shapes and makes us into who we are right now. In a way, the past lives in the current moment. But what happens when what was learned is hurting you now? Using psychodynamic techniques you discover and work through past issues to address the underlying ones that are still active. The result is greater freedom to live in the “here and now”, unburdened by the past.