Header Graphic

Counseling Style

I have a gentle approach that recognizes each person's unique strengths and gifts in addition to the issues that brought them to therapy. I work with people dealing with life changes, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, low self-esteem, feelings of meaninglessness and spiritual issues. I tailor my approach to the needs of each client and allow the work to proceed at a pace that feels safe and supportive.

Additional areas of clinical practice include: postpartum depression, grieving the loss of a loved one to suicide, and sexual orientation coming out process.

There are many different theoretical approaches to therapy; I primarily utilize cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic, existential, and coaching concepts.

Cognitive Behavioral: Exploring how our thoughts impact our behaviors and emotions. Facilitating behavior change by managing our thought patterns.

Psychodynamic: Identifying and processing past experiences and relating them to our present to gain insight and awareness of ourselves.

Existential: Looking at the big picture and rationale behind what we do or do not do. Asking ourselves is this consistent and compatible with my personal convictions and beliefs?

Coaching: Looking at the present and developing concrete goals to embrace change. These goals are identified by introspection of your bedrock values in life and what is important to you.

Prior to the first session: If you have not had a physical in the past year, this is strongly suggested. Often times certain medical conditions such as diabetes and hypothyroidism can appear to look like depression if not being medically treated. After we have agreed on an appointment time, I will have some brief forms for you to fill out prior to our session. If using insurance, I ask that you bring a photo id at time of our first session.

The initial visit is a time for both of us to get to know each other, this involves me obtaining a detailed personal history as well as discussing the situation that brings you in to seek therapy. At the end of the appointment I will discuss treatment options with you and identify goals for therapy. I encourage you to ask questions throughout the process as this creates a collaborative relationship.