My Approach to Therapy
In treatment, I utilize an eclectic approach tailored to the unique needs and goals of clients, broadly governed by psychodynamic and systems theories, and deeply rooted in the present moment, experiential relationship of self and other.
Systems Theory
Systems theory considers an individual or relationship within the context of the larger systems in which they live. This can include immediate family, career relationships, and external support systems in your community and wider society. Personal identity markers such as race, gender identity & expression, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status and others are considered as part of the context that influences your environment and lived experience.
Psychodynamic Theory
A psychodynamic approach views present day functioning as directly related to early childhood experiences. There is a strong focus on understanding attachment learning and developmental trauma, and healing involves creating corrective relational and emotional experiences. Psychodynamic theory considers the interaction of conscious and unconscious drives and forces within the person, as well as different structures of the personality.
Guided by these broad theoretical approaches, I integrate elements of Relational Gestalt Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), and Systemic Sex Therapy. There are many different ways of conceptualizing and communicating about concerns, and each client will need interventions tailored to their specific goals and ways of understanding. I find myself speaking often about balancing self-compassion with accountability, cultivating more pleasure and joy, living in line with values, providing psychoeducation, and doing parts work.