In couples therapy, the approach differs significantly from individual therapy. While the process can be straightforward, finding a skilled therapist who truly understands the dynamics of relationships can be challenging. In my couples therapy sessions, I focus on helping partners communicate more effectively. By exploring the dynamics and origins of emotional reactions, we can gain valuable insights that foster deeper understanding between partners. It’s much like piecing together a puzzle. First, we seek insight, and then we work toward meaningful change. I understand how painful it can feel to be isolated within a relationship, but I want you to know that there is hope. With commitment and effort from both partners, positive change is possible. Together, we will work toward rebuilding connection and trust.

Anxiety disorders encompass a range of conditions characterized by excessive fear or anxiety. Here’s brief overview of common anxiety disorders, their symptoms and treatment options: difficulty concentrating, irritability, muscle tension, appetite and sleep disturbance, obsessions with compulsive behaviors, muscle tension, excessive worry and social isolation. People with panic attacks, feel overwhelmed, heart rate rising, sweaty palms, feeling dizzy and the thought that something horrible is about to happen.

Many clients I see struggle with depression, which can manifest in various forms and symptoms, including low mood, disturbances in sleep and appetite, difficulties concentrating, feelings of hopelessness and the inability to experience joy. Bipolar Disorder is another mood disorder and is characterized by elevated mood, feelings of euphoria, increased confidence or grandiosity, decreased need for sleep, irritability and impulsivity.

Together, we can identify the symptoms that can be effectively addressed through talk therapy and, when appropriate, consider the use of psychotropic medication.

Eating disorders can be isolating and have a profound impact on relationships. This isolation often leads these individuals to feel shame and keep their struggles hidden. Therefore, addressing relationship issues and fostering healthier connections is a crucial step in the recovery process. This often involves encouraging self-expression, which may have been suppressed by the eating disorder. Recovering from eating disorders is a journey that requires patience, commitment, and support. My goal is to provide a comprehensive and compassionate approach that helps clients navigate their journey toward healing and well-being.

Chronic pain conditions present complex challenges that require a compassionate, informed, and collaborative approach to care. As someone who has lived with chronic pain, I have discovered my own insights and empathy which are invaluable in fostering understanding and support for those navigating these difficult experiences. By working together with medical professionals and offering compassionate psychotherapy, I can help my clients find their way through this complex and scary experience of pain and with the goal of improving one’s quality of life.
The following are the treatment modalities I draw from. I am not an expert in any, but I use skills from each according to my client’s needs.

We are all shaped by life experiences, and there is a connection between the past and present. How we experience ourselves in the present is informed by the experiences, good or bad, from the past Overall, psychodynamic therapy is a deep and reflective approach that emphasizes understanding the complexities of the human psyche. By exploring the unconscious influences on behavior and emotions, clients can achieve greater awareness and personal growth, leading to more fulfilling and authentic lives. This approach aids us in developing insight, the first part in recovery, with change being the second.

This theory focuses on stablishing a safe and trusting space where clients can explore their emotions and experiences without fear of judgment. Helping clients develop awareness of their physiological responses can empower them to recognize when they are in a state of dysregulation and take steps to self-soothe or re-engage with their social environment.
Mindfulness practices and breath control can activate the ventral vagal system, promoting relaxation and emotional regulation. Facilitating opportunities for clients to engage in positive social interactions, whether through group therapy or community involvement, can enhance feelings of safety and belonging.

I try to recognize when clients may need pharmaceutical intervention, and I am committed to working collaboratively with other healthcare professionals. Medication can help with daily functioning. This collaborative model not only enhances the quality of care but also provides clients with a more supportive and effective treatment experience. If you have any specific questions or need further information on this topic, feel free to ask!

I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as a foundational approach with all my clients. CBT is a structured, goal-oriented therapy that empowers individuals to identify and understand their problematic thought patterns and behaviors. This approach is rooted in the understanding that our thoughts, feelings, and actions are interconnected, and that by addressing negative or distorted thinking. With this knowledge, clients can make meaningful change in their emotional and behavioral responses.
Through our collaborative work, you will learn to explore the origins of your thoughts and beliefs, gaining insight into how they influence your emotions and behaviors. Together, we will identify patterns that may be contributing to your symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, or self-defeating behaviors. By bringing these patterns to light, we can work on modifying them to foster a healthier mindset.

DBT is particularly effective for individuals who struggle with intense emotions and impulsive behaviors. It emphasizes the development of skills that enhance emotional regulation, interpersonal effectiveness, distress tolerance, and mindfulness. By integrating these skills into our sessions, I help clients improve their ability to tolerate difficult emotions and navigate challenging situations with greater ease and confidence. One of the core components of DBT, is focused on building emotional resilience. Throughout our work together, clients learn to identify and accept their emotions without judgment. This acceptance fosters a compassionate understanding of oneself, which is crucial for managing overwhelming feelings. Clients are taught practical techniques to cope with distress in healthier ways. This reduces reliance on maladaptive behaviors, that may have served as temporary relief but ultimately hinder overall well-being.