My Approach
My approach to therapy is quite simple. It often becomes complicated when I try putting my style into words! I think what sets my style apart from other clinicians is the way in which I listen, and how I make sense of what I hear. Clients often say that I put into words what they can only feel. And once they hear their needs through my voice, they instinctively feel calmer, clearer, and more compassionate toward themselves and others.
In recent years I have drawn significant inspiration from Internal Family Systems (IFS). I have done extensive training and believe the framework aligns closely with my innate style, as well as with the training I received in my graduate program. You can learn more about this psychotherapy model here: https://ifs-institute.com/
My approach is heavily influenced by what I’ve learned from neurodivergent individuals, both in and out of the professional environment. As I learn more about what it means to exist in a neuronormative world, I feel I understand better the struggles and challenges facing those of us who may feel out of place or misunderstood. I strive to work and live from a position of acceptance and compassion, celebrating the diversity we all bring to this world. I welcome necessary changes to our society, and hope to contribute to a world that feels safe for all.
“Who we are and how we engage with the world are much stronger predictors of how our children will do than what we know about parenting.”
― Brené Brown, Daring Greatly: How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead
Teens and Young Adults
Teens and young adults are struggling, and not just because of the unprecedented pandemic they experienced. They report feeling pressured, stressed, overwhelmed, tired, and sad. Some of them can’t focus, struggle to learn, and they are angry at themselves for not “doing more” and “being better.” They tell me that their parents think they’re lazy, but follow up by saying they couldn’t imagine working any harder.
If you’re a teen or a young adult reading this, and you can identify with these problems, please know you aren’t alone. Seriously, you aren’t. And if you can’t identify with these problems, but have other problems, you aren’t alone either.
Your generation is being hit with so much stress, and it seems to me like parents, teachers, coaches, even siblings and friends - they’re all just piling it on. Not intentionally, mind you. But it’s happening and you’re under it.
You need more support, and therapy is a great start. You need to laugh, play, and enjoy the person you’re becoming. You need to trust the future, and your place in it. You need to know that you’re going to be okay, even if you struggle with certain things.
Let’s start this journey together. I will provide you with the safety and support you need to heal, grow, and thrive.
Here’s how we’ll work together:
Right now I only offer virtual appointments. You can be anywhere, as long as it’s private.
Depending on your age, I may ask that a parent or guardian share a bit of the first session. This is for me to get background information and review policies, etc.
The intake session is low-key: I talk for a bit, you may talk for a bit, your parent(s) or guardian may talk for a bit, we may meet alone for a few minutes, and then we make a plan for the next handful of appointments. I have a casual style and want you to feel comfortable.
Follow up appointments are usually weekly, sometimes two times a month depending on your need.
If you aren’t convinced that I’m the right person for you after that initial appointment, no problem. The choice of who you see for therapy should be yours, and I will not take offense.
Overwhelmed Parents
If you’re an overwhelmed parent, you know it. You don’t need me to outline what that means. Managing a variety of roles ranging from caregiver to cook, chances are you don’t get a break. If you’re parenting a child with complex needs, your output is much higher. Precious little space is left for you. You live your life in the margins, and it’s getting harder to keep it all together.
You’re here because you’re noticing the toll this life is taking on you and your family. You see that your own health and well-being matter and you want to feel better. You may not like it, but you need help, and you’re finally ready to ask for it.
Welcome.
What will I do for you?
I will provide you with a safe space to share your story, because you matter.
I will invite you to rediscover who you are underneath all of the responsibilities, expectations, and demands.
I will offer you ways of being in your body, in your family, and in your life that will lessen your burdens and replenish your most valuable resources: time and energy.
I will support your journey, celebrate your growth, and help you find the future you long for.