My approach to therapy

A core of my work that is always present is a trauma-informed perspective, and I frequently integrate attachment theory. Since 2010, I have worked with clients in different relational aspects, starting with victims and survivors of sexual abuse and domestic violence, high-conflict families, and homeless youth. It was through this work that I became very familiar with the complexities of trauma. 

I had the insight that our traumas are inextricably linked to our relationships and our resources. On the deepest level, they impact how we see ourselves, how the world sees us, how we approach our physical and financial security, and how we take care of each other (or don’t). This is why attachment theory is so central to the work that I do. It’s all connected, and healing attachment wounds can be a key piece to restoring the feeling of connection clients are often seeking.

Seeing personal traumas as inseparable from collective impacts is also why I work with both individuals and partnerships to bring healing to ongoing conflicts and what prompted me to get certified in EMDR and financial therapy.

When implementing EMDR into sessions, I combine parts work and attachment theory to integrate parts of self with each other, and in my work both with individuals and couples experiencing relationship distress, I incorporate the Gottman Method and EFT. Using these theoretical models, I have witnessed clients have epiphanies about their patterns and learn how to create new positive cycles of engagement in lasting way

One of the first steps I usually integrate in our therapeutic relationships is incorporating techniques to increase a client’s window of tolerance and stress resiliency. This includes breathing techniques, mindfulness, and imagery to aid in physiological self-soothing and grounding, and I also gravitate toward Dan Siegel’s work and his techniques in mindfulness and interpersonal neurobiology.