My Approach to Helping
You might be struggling with feeling like there is too much to do, that you're not okay, or not capable enough to make the changes you desire. Are you struggling to figure out how to get going and how to take better care of yourself? It's so painful to struggle with strong emotions, feelings of anxiety, not feeling good enough, and being stuck in unhelpful behavior patterns and unfulfilling relationships. Whether this is new for you or a long-standing challenge, I know that there is a way through this.
No matter what you're feeling or how embarrassed or ashamed you might feel, I will provide a non-judgmental space for you to feel comfortable and emotionally safe. In therapy with me, you can talk about anything, feel whatever is happening, and share whatever is on your mind. You will learn new skills and tools and we will go at a pace that feels good for you. I'll support you in practicing curiosity about your emotional experience and together we'll uncover the unmet needs that your emotions are trying to convey. We will identify and support you to follow your values and work to overcome the obstacles to your growth. At times, our work will be solution-focused and skills-based and at times, it will be about safely expressing, feeling and healing the emotions that are wanting attention.
Most importantly, I understand that all people have wisdom and goodness inside of them. Seeds of joy, peace, wisdom, and love all lie inside each human being. I see my role as that of an experienced ally and facilitator, helping people come to explore their inner landscape, know themselves more deeply, and befriend themselves whole-heartedly. To uncover and follow your heart is a possible and worthwhile personal journey. When we know and respect ourselves and are caring for ourselves with loving-kindness, we feel more nourished and able to love others more fully and fairly. I respect my clients and their process. I enjoy helping others through the dynamic, genuine, and creative process of therapy. Therapy is for anyone who wants to support themselves to heal or grow.
More Info About My Practice
If you're anxious-in-love or struggling with finding healthy and enjoyable relationships or feeling unfulfilled in your current relationship, my training in how to help people improve their relationships could be of help to you in individual therapy. Individual therapy may have been recommended to you alongside couple's therapy or it could be that your partner is not interested in couple's therapy but you want to work on relationship issues. I have completed the 3 training levels of the Gottman Therapy Method and use it to help my individual clients learn about the key components of a successful relationship and begin practicing strategies on their end to implement them. This can help you feel more confident that you are doing what you can to improve your existing relationship or begin a healthier one.
*During the Covid-19 pandemic, I am offering online therapy services which can be via video or phone. My therapy office is located in Downtown Burlingame near 101 and the Caltrain station. I look forward to welcoming clients back to in person therapy once it is safer to do so. Feel free to contact me for a free 15-minute phone consultation to discuss your needs and how I can help.
Specific Issue(s) I'm Skilled at Helping With
My areas of focus are helping clients heal from chronic anxiety, worry, co-dependency, perfectionism, self-criticism, low self-esteem, grief, loss, relationship trouble, life transition, and crises of meaning. I'm passionate about personal growth and helping people live more authentically, becoming more empowered as an individual and in their relationships.
Why Going to Therapy Does Not Mean You are Weak or Flawed
Everyone naturally has areas of vulnerability. In our vulnerability, we find valuable information that can help us live more in line with what's important to us. There's an ACT slogan that goes; "In our pain we find our values." There is tremendous heart to be found in our vulnerable feelings. Wanting support with a sensitive area is why people seek out therapy. It's courageous and a sign of clarity to know what you're feeling and to take the steps to get support and guidance. Too often people hide from their difficult feelings and act out harmful behaviors that can manifest in problematic habits, isolation, overwork, avoiding closeness, conflict, depression, anxiety, etc... this causes distress and can result in a lack of meaning. Engaging in therapy is admirable, you are demonstrating that you are bold enough to take a look at yourself and lovingly take steps to grow in the direction you cherish. You can find your beauty, strength, and wisdom in the process too.
