“Smile, breathe and go slowly.” — Thich Nhat Hanh
Healing begins in the presence of a compassionate listener — someone who we can feel free to be ourselves with. In these shared moments, shame is laid to rest, anger is given a voice and sadness is granted a place of reverence. I genuinely receive clients exactly as they are and endeavor to provide a safe environment that promotes secure disclosure. My approach is founded upon respect and consideration for all beings. I do not discriminate for any reason and celebrate every individual in Our Human Family.
Traumatic experiences reshape how we view ourselves and the world. They distort our sense of self and alter our interactions with others. Like a splinter impeding physical healing if not removed, unresolved trauma interferes with our emotional reparative process. The impact it leaves on our mind and body can feel insurmountable to overcome. However, there is something very important to bear in mind — just as trauma is able to shape us, so too does healing. As a trauma therapist my greatest joy is helping clients come home to themselves. Nothing compares to the shared experience of watching someone reclaim their lives.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a unique approach to addressing and healing trauma. Unlike other modalities, it requires minimal discussion of traumatic events unless deeper exploration is desired. EMDR is founded upon knowledge that we were created with innate healing capabilities. No one is broken. Together we will target significant experiences from your life and introduce techniques that encourage your innate healing ability.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing is a phase oriented technique. Before processing can take place, we must first build a solid foundation. Oftentimes clients feel overwhelmed by emotions and physical reactions. For this reason, self regulatory techniques are first introduced so you can begin reclaiming your personal power. As we enhance self soothing during times of distress, we strengthen our capacity to process difficult material. When clients feel they are ready to target and process traumatic experiences, bilateral stimulation is introduced: eye movements, auditory tones or tapping. Similar to rapid eye movement during dreaming, bilateral stimulation accesses natural healing powers of the brain. Feelings and sensations attached to difficult memories begin to become unstuck as the mind and body work towards adaptive resolution. These experiences are not erased or forgotten, but the strength of the emotional and physical connection to them is softened.
Human beings are social creatures who derive meaning from shared connections. We flourish when we feel valued and struggle when we are disconnected. My practice embodies a Humanistic Person-Centered approach. I value my clients as individuals and believe deep down they have the answers they seek. As a therapist my goal is to be your guide and offer evidence based techniques that nurture your innate healing ability. It has been shown time and again one of the greatest predictors of therapeutic success is the therapist-client relationship. For this reason I pride myself on creating a safe space founded upon respect, trust and understanding.
We find ourselves on the healing path for a myriad of reasons. While everyone carries a uniquely personal story, on this path we all share a common belief: There is something greater for me. With a gentle heart and open mind, I invite you to share your journey with me.