We all want to love and feel loved, but we may sense that something is missing or getting in the way. In trying to meet these needs in the ways we know how, it is easy to feel stuck, disconnected, or alone, and it can be painful to not see much change despite our best efforts. We end up getting caught in the same cycles, feeling frustration and disappointment that we aren’t getting the outcomes we hoped for. When we are immersed in those situations it is hard to make space to identify what the problems might be. Therapy provides an opportunity to build new awareness of the ways we relate to ourselves and others. Therapy can also be a space to better understand our emotions, relationships, and patterns. Though change can be uncomfortable and uncertain, it is also essential for growth. Having an open mind opens the door to new possibilities and experiences that can lead to greater satisfaction.

My approach to working with individuals combines elements from psychodynamic thought, mindfulness, somatic awareness, and parts work.  We will use these different perspectives to understand the complexities of your unique self, and try different practices that ease tension, bring about clarity, and connect to your wisdom.  We will investigate how your thoughts and actions have been conditioned, while cultivating kindness towards yourself.  Through this kindness you will get to know all the parts of yourself – including those you may dislike, reject, or wish didn’t exist – inviting acceptance and a sense of wholeness.  

I am a visual person and often times find analogies helpful in my work with clients. Sometimes I use the visual of a ball of yarn that is wound round and round, creating layers of deep-rooted patterns that are hard to take a look at without loosening it. These layers of beliefs, habits, painful emotions, reactions, defenses, and traumas need to be aired to be more clearly seen and understood. Adding heartful qualities like compassion and kindness to the exploration are essential in facilitating healing.