My Approach to Helping
I strive to create an open safe space with no judgement for individuals to discuss their thoughts, feelings and behaviors with intention of creating opportunities for change. My style leans far away from the traditional behind a desk environment and process.
We will have open dialogue, we may go down rabbit holes looking at core beliefs or unhealthy habits and even laugh at times. I am open to discussions if someone does not agree with a thought or path I am taking us down or is not sure why I keep returning to a particular thought or question. While I am an active listener, I will also offer ideas, perspectives and some direction at times. I may give assignments but you will know I will not be upset if it was not completed by next session.
My hope is every person feels a bit lighter when they leave from a session and has a sense of more hope about their next day.
I understand the possible stress, anxiety and or fear of reaching out the first time. I have done my own work in the past with a therapist and chose to wait till later in my mental health career and life experiences to go into private practice. I believe that choice has made me a better clinician and why at times when you can not find words to explain a feeling or thought, I am able to try to give an idea or phrase that makes it come together.
I am aware from client feedback over the years that my stye at times feels like a comfortable conversation with a friend but somehow still holds the understanding that I am your therapist. I have been in this field for over 25 years in many different arenas and I have learned and grown for all of them.
I will cheerlead you, I will be very careful with how far we push in areas you may not be ready to go to and at times, I will try to pull you back into focusing on what your goal is and what you want with a bit of gentle firmness.
No one can "mess up" in my world, we will just look at the stumble or oops with open eyes and pick right back up where we are in your journey with more knowledge of how to help you find your way to what you need to live a hopeful, healthy and present life.