My clinical practice is guided by theory, clinical data (client report, what is observed in session, and dynamics that guide sessions) and the client-therapist relationship. The cornerstone of psychotherapy is the relationship between client and therapist. Looking more closely at this relationship can illuminate many issues for which individuals or couples seek therapy. Safely exploring the client-therapist relationship can engender insights into core beliefs about self and other, and patterns found or “rooted” in many relationships. The curiosity about this “rooted experience” often guides the therapeutic process.

Theories that inform my practice include: psychodynamic, psychoanalytic, relational, object relations, person-in-environment, behavioral, feminist and attachment. Psychodynamic therapies seek to understand the interplay of the conscious and unconscious, the seen and unseen emotional currents that inform personality and motivation. This approach allows room to explore the origins, or "roots" of personality traits and ways of relating to the world.

When clinically appropriate and indicated, I also provide therapeutic interventions informed by behavioral therapies including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). I have received post-graduate training in both psychodynamic psychotherapy and the behavioral therapies. Should you have any questions regarding the differences amongst these therapies, I encourage you to voice them.

Commitment to Diversity

Dedicated to understanding and serving the unique needs of clients not identified with socially dominant groups, I work with clients from a multiplicity of perspectives. Creating a therapeutic space marked by authenticity, acceptance and respectful curiosity is vital to allowing clients to enter "where they are" and as who they are.