Approach to Psychotherapy
I believe it’s important for you to know my basic thoughts about psychotherapy and how I think about others — I’ve been most drawn to the view that we are shaped by our unconscious being, and that the decisions we make are greatly influenced by things we are not even aware of. These “habitual” ways of being have been around since our childhood and were very useful at one time or another. Knowing this can help us be gentle and kind with ourselves as we approach the therapeutic process.
Chronic Depression and Anxiety
Many people suffer from depression and often may not be aware of it. I will utilize breathing, bodywork, and insight to help you feel better over time. I will also provide you with tools that can assist you in daily living. I find depression and anxiety interesting mainly due to the ability to heal and gain relief from the suffering caused by these complaints.
Overwhelming Feelings
You may be experiencing your feelings or emotions as uncontrollable waves. An important first step is to learn how to contain these feelings in order to lessen their destructive impact on your life. Once this is achieved, you are able to move into a space of truly experiencing yourself through a journey of inquiry and self-discovery.
Complex Trauma
Exploring the impact of subtle traumas throughout life takes courage and can be incredibly healing. Complex trauma, also known as ‘small t trauma,’ is a form of trauma that manifests similar response symptoms as ‘major traumas.’ These types of traumas impact one’s ability to cope and regulate emotion. This often appears as a threat to one’s sense of self and feeling able to exist in the world. Some examples of complex trauma are neglect in childhood, being in an unpredictable home growing up, interpersonal conflicts, and abrupt life transitions.
The Connection Between the Spiritual & Therapeutic Worlds
I believe spirituality is an important part of life in whatever form it takes. I am open to considering the most difficult questions of life and death. I respect and honor any spiritual or religious approach and will help in weaving your personal perspectives into the healing process — in addition to acknowledging that religious background and experience can also have a painful history in what it is to make sense of issues around self-view and esteem.
The Therapeutic Use of Introspective Practices
Introspection is the practice of “looking inside” or “the examination or observation of one’s own mental and emotional process.” This can be discovered through meditation, mindful awareness, and the bridging of the past and present, along with simple curious inquiry.