About me
My approach to therapy
My therapeutic approach is primarily informed by psychodynamic and relational theories of psychotherapy and practiced through a lens of trauma-informed care and somatic therapy. What does this mean, practically speaking?
This means I believe that what has happened to you has a profound impact on the way you see yourself and what you expect to receive from others—this includes the way your family interacted when you were growing up and how your caregivers cared for you (or didn’t).
It means I believe in the value of exploring your unconscious self—that being more aware of what you know (but might not know you know) both in your mind and your body can lead to real insight.
Above all, I believe that emotions are primary in the human experience and that our bodies hold and express these emotions in very real ways. Exploring those emotions and the conflicts related to them within the context of a trusted relationship with a therapist can be key to lasting empowerment and change.
How I show up in session
In my relationship with clients, I focus on providing a sense of safety and non-judgment. I’ll work to feel big emotions along with you but stay steady so that you have the freedom to focus on yourself. I also hope to bring a sense of humor, because even though you may be doing some difficult work, finding joy in life is so important.
I approach every session with curiosity; I am interested in learning about what it means to be you and hope to inspire that same inquisitiveness in you, about you. I am motivated to work hard to truly see you, even though you might be confused about who that is right now.
I believe therapy is about making connections: discovering connections between what we feel and the way we think and act; connections between our conscious and unconscious minds; connections between our mind and body.
Exploring all these things using your connection to your therapist as an important tool can be a really good way to take that confusing jumble of things you’re feeling and sort through it—together.
License & Education
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, WA - LH61341351
M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Northwestern University, Evanston, IL