My Approach to Therapy

 

Let’s face it, sometimes life can get a little prickly. During these times it may be difficult to untangle yourself and move forward. That is where therapy can make a tremendous difference. By seeking the help of a trained professional, you can better identify and break free from repetitive cycles and ineffective actions in order to reach your full potential.

In our work together, I will help you gain more awareness and clarity on what is keeping you stuck, determine where you want to go, and identify how we can get you there. Common strategies I incorporate in sessions and assign as home practice include defining current values, mindfulness practice, unhooking from unhelpful thought patterns, opening to and accepting difficult emotions, engaging in self-compassion, and curating specific action plans for reaching desired goals. With compassion, humor, and committed action we can work collaboratively to enhance your personal growth and build the kind of life you want to live.

I have been on my own winding journey and am living proof that change and growth are not linear. I wholeheartedly believe in the strategies I use with clients, as they have worked for myself and countless others over decades. If it is helpful for you to know specifics, I draw my inspiration and framework for therapy mostly from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT). I also pay particular attention to narratives of oppression and limitation that influence clients’ thoughts, feelings, and actions.

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LH60650496) in the state of Washington and received a Master of Arts in Counseling from Antioch University in 2014. My work experience includes group private practice, inpatient chemical dependency treatment centers and community mental health settings. I have experience with and welcome clients from all backgrounds regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, race, religious affiliation and/or sexual orientation.

Areas of Focus:

Anxiety
Women’s Issues
Depression
Harm Reduction
Career Counseling
Life Transitions
Work/Life Balance