My Approach to Therapy
01.
The relationship between therapist and client is central to healing in my approach to therapy. I care deeply about my clients and believe that our connection is an important piece of the healing process. Being alone in painful circumstances and through traumatic events is a key part of the distress you may be experiencing, I will be with you in the pain and through the big emotions that may arise.
02.
Our emotions are felt in our bodies but we are often disconnected from our bodies due to traumatic experiences or socio-cultural beliefs we have internalized about bodies. The distress that may be coming up in your body and bringing you to counselling likely feels overwhelming and unbearable, however I believe your body is communicating a need for change and ultimately pointing you toward healing. Your body is good and wise. I will guide you in reconnecting to and listening to the wisdom of what your body is telling you.
03.
Experiential therapy involves creating space for the processing of difficult emotions associated with trauma and oppression as well as connecting with experiences of joy, calm, pride and clarity that emerge. It means that we are not just talking about what happened to you and re-hashing painful experiences in a cognitive way. We will slow down and be present with what is arising as we explore the source of your distress. This may involve re-creating new and healing experiences that are different from what you experienced in the past. I am trained in a number of different experiential therapies that you are welcome to look up if interested (EMDR, IFS, AEDP).
04.
I hold an awareness of the ways that power and oppression impact and cause suffering to all of us. My approach is tailored to your unique needs and intersecting identities. I am continually working to unlearn my own internalized biases and recognize this will be a lifelong journey. I know that I will make mistakes along the way and I welcome feedback and accountability. I strive to provide a safe, accepting, and empowering space where you can share your stories of both pain and joy and move forward in creating new stories that align with your values and hopes in life. You can learn more about my beliefs and values here.