The work.
As an integrative psychologist I look at systems that affect and support the WHOLE person. Mental, emotional, physical, sociocultural, and spiritual factors all weave together into the story of your becoming. I don’t believe that we end up “here” by any sort of mistake or by having taken a wrong turn at some point. My work is to help you look at the myriad aspects of your story and get clarity about what no longer serves you as well as what needs to be nurtured and strengthened going forward. Taking a holistic approach empowers you to make meaningful and lasting changes in your life by aligning you with your core values.
"In the depth of winter, I finally learned that within me there lay an invincible summer."
~ Albert Camus
My philosophy.
I don’t believe in admiring a problem. Life and work have taught me that what we pay attention to we WILL see more of. That doesn’t mean what you’re up against isn’t real and important…it’s just that (for most of us) when we are saddled with a problem, we are convinced that the problem is bigger than us. That’s what makes it a “problem”.
But every problem can be broken down into smaller and smaller parts, each of which are solvable either with skills you have or skills you can develop. And herein lies the magic…when you strengthen yourself, when you get the outer world to line up with your heart’s deepest desires, when you align your self with what you truly value and choose the things that fill you up, you become bigger…way bigger…than the problems that stand in your way. You become the remover of all obstacles. You become your very own alchemist. This isn’t about denying the struggle, but about transforming it. Walking straight through it to the other side.
I don’t believe that there is anything wrong with any one of us. We have found ourselves in our current conditions as a result of adaptation to our environments and its many factors, both personal and systemic. What brings most people to therapy is the recognition that our current needs, desires, and longings are not matched by the life they see around them. The work we do together is in moving elements both internally and externally at all levels of awareness to create alignment. My work is also deeply informed by the reality of systemic oppression across all levels of American society and is thus person-centered, social justice oriented, and trauma-informed.
Everyone’s “special recipe” is different and we will work together to define and design yours whether that’s for you, your dream of what you want for your family, or for your child. Bottom line, I believe in you. I’m not the therapist who is going to sit across from you and tell you that something in you is broken or a mistake. I believe in what you are capable of and I can’t wait to see what you do.
It all begins with heart…
Services
Individual counseling
You are on a remarkable journey. It is yours. Our work together will be a partnership in which we will close the distance between you and your dreams. By illuminating the things most important to you and discovering what constitutes YOUR perfect balance we will strengthen the very core of you. Together we will fill your coffers with the tools and treasures you need to get to where you want to be and remove the obstacles you find on your way.
youth counseling
Individuality, authenticity, curiosity, and discovery are the glorious hallmarks of this time. At times confusion, transition, self-doubt, and struggle of various kinds are the unfortunate companions. Developing self-identity, coping skills, and positive social support (in family and friends) are all integral to supporting the foundation for a healthy adolescence leading gracefully into adulthood. I work with youth individually and the family unit to make the most of these brief and full years.
couples and families
Together, we will find ways to help you create a happy healthy family, nurture learning opportunities for you and your child, and clear the path toward your hopes and dreams for your child. Everything begins with what you are already doing right. I guarantee you, EVERY parent is doing a million things to support their child’s healthy development and that’s where we begin. We will shine the light on what’s working and then chart the course for the rest of your journey from there.
energy work
What is happening in the mental, emotional and physical planes are also mirrored in what is known as the “subtle” body or spiritual plane. I practice Reiki and other energy medicine healing modalities to create deep and lasting shifts that support changes being made at the psychological or behavioral level. Hands on techniques, guided visualizations, meditation and mindfulness, and other intuitively driven approaches are utilized.
retreats and workshops
Local and destination retreats offer intensive deep dives into opportunities for radical growth and healing. These experiences integrate a multitude of activities to address needs holistically. Teaching, movement, meditation, nature, and community all provide scaffolding for dynamic shifts. Local workshops offer brief yet immersive experiences for growth, healing and restoration and incorporate breathwork, energy work, and meditation.
dance empowered
Dance Empowered is a group dance experience that is designed to be emotionally evocative, freedom giving, and highly spirited. Incorporating numerous dance styles I lead groups through choreographed routines that modulate in intensity and complexity. No prior dance experience is necessary. This is a practice in mindful movement, vulnerability, courage, and unbridled self-expression at its best.