My Approach

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Getting to know you.

I approach my work from a holistic and strengths-based framework. Utilizing an integrative approach, I pull from a variety of treatment modalities. My style combines behavioral, interpersonal, and mindfulness-based therapies, along with honesty, empathy, and of course, some humor!

The critical first step in any therapeutic process is to build a trusting relationship and instill hope. This involves providing you with a safe, nonjudgmental space to ask questions, share important parts of your life, and describe your current concerns. Together, we will also discuss your strengths and any strategies you have already been utilizing and whether you find them helpful. We will talk through what is working well and what needs tweaking. Throughout every stage of the process, I will ask for feedback and check in on how you are feeling about therapy.

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Developing a roadmap.

Recognizing that there are many, often interrelated, components to a person's life, my focus is on supporting the whole person, to help them identify their goals while also learning to embrace their full identity. No treatment plan will ever look the same. Your life experiences are unique, and therefore your therapy journey will be individualized. Together, we will co-create a plan that is authentic to you — one that balances your needs and priorities while taking into consideration your mind-body connection. Some strategies we may utilize include:

  • Cognitive restructuring

  • Exposure therapy

  • Mindfulness-based relaxation techniques

  • Grounding exercises

  • Thought recording/journaling

  • Trauma narrative

  • Role plays (frequently used in family sessions)

  • Behavioral activation

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Specialties & expertise

  • It is very common for anxiety and depression symptoms to overlap.

    Depression can look like someone feeling sad more often than not, loss of pleasure in things they previously enjoyed, feeling hopeless, and changes in appetite and sleep patterns.

    Anxiety tends to show up through excessive worry, difficulty concentrating, and increased irritability. Often people will also experience physical symptoms like rapid heart beat and shortness of breath.

  • Life transitions of all shapes and sizes can trigger a reaction, mentally and physically. Many people report feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and having a difficult time sleeping. Some also report physical symptoms like stomach issues.

    Common life transitions include job loss or career transition, marriage, health challenges, and loss of a loved one.

  • One of the earliest signs that a relationship is in need of improvement is a breakdown in communication. Often this comes from a lack of open and honest conversations and/or conflict avoidance. Over time this can lead to frustration and resentment. Many people think that relationship issues only emerge with romantic partners, but this is not true. Many of my clients have sought out support with navigating unhealthy professional relationships and extended family relationships.

  • For centuries, families all over the world have been shaped by the way in which their ancestors and family members communicated with one another and passed down their lived experiences (including trauma).

    Families that are going through a challenging time often display poor communication, passive-aggressive behaviors, frequent fighting, or periods when family members do not speak to each other. Families experiencing intergenerational trauma may also be avoidant and/or unaware of how the trauma continues to impact family members.

  • As a mom of two young children, I understand firsthand the immense physical and emotional changes that women go through during all phases of motherhood.

    Women can experience anxiety, depression, and other mood challenges at all stages.

    Additionally, motherhood can bring up a lot of thoughts and feelings around the mother’s birth experience/story, their attachment with their child/children, and their memories and relationships with their own caregivers.

  • It is very common for individuals to go through a work/life imbalance. Many undergraduate and graduate students struggle with similar challenges.

    In a society with constant pressures and demands, it is not surprising that many people struggle with burnout. Burnout can stem from poor boundaries, excessive working hours, lack of self-care, and the overall company culture. However, if left unaddressed it can impact relationships and one’s own personal wellbeing.