My Approach to Helping
TELETHERAPY ONLY OFFERED AT THIS COVID-19 PANDEMIC TIME
I believe that all individuals matter and are worthy of having joy, respect, success, positive health, pleasure and fulfillment, in all aspects of their life. I believe each person is entitled to a healthy sexuality, emotional and physical safety, access to information and resources as desired, a positive view of self, and the right to express this self with authenticity. I approach therapy with this vision in mind, and practice with a warm, curious and non-judgmental stance, aiming to create a safe space where individuals and couples can work through their challenges. I value supporting people in recognizing their own strengths and abilities, and to view themselves and the world as full of possibilities.
I am interested in learning about what brings you to therapy, and collaborating with you to craft a treatment plan that will effectively meet your needs and improve your quality of life. I work well with people who are motivated to experience positive change, committed to the therapy process and who understand that they are the most vital piece of their puzzle in uncovering and understanding personal barriers. I would be honored to be part of your journey and would commit myself to provide the type of support that will be most useful for you at this time.
More Info About My Practice
As an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist and having received specialized training in Sex Therapy and Sexual Health at the University of Michigan, the primary focus of my practice is Sex Therapy with individuals and couples (as well as polyamorous relationships) who are experiencing difficulties or challenges in their relationships, sexual functioning, sexuality, identity, gender expression, and sense of self. I also specialize in working with LGBTQIA individuals and relationships, and I am comfortable with the BDSM and kink community. There are a multitude of reasons people choose to work with a Sex Therapist specifically, ranging from intimacy issues, to differences in sexual desire within a relationship, to sexual pain, to expanding one's sexual repertoire, to grappling with sexual identity. And many more. On my website, I provide a list of common issues that may lead someone to seek support from a Sex Therapist.
What I Love about Being a Psychotherapist
What I love about being a therapist is the opportunity to join with people who are on their way to transforming their lives. I feel grateful to be let in to people's lives, histories, relationships, experiences, and innermost desires, and be a guide and supporter to break through barriers. I am passionate about all aspects of sexuality and sexual health, and truly believe everyone deserves to feel comfortable and safe within one's own body, relationship, identity and community. I particularly love when people have that "aha!" moment and walk away feeling more hopeful, connected, and empowered. We live in a world where, unfortunately, not everyone has the support they need, especially around sexuality, gender identity and other sexual issues, and I see myself as being available to provide this support, understanding, and affirmation of your being.
On the Fence About Going to Therapy?
If you have come this far and are reading this, then there's at least one part of you that recognizes that something in your life is not as you want it to be, and believes you might be able to do something about it. I think it takes courage to seek support, especially around issues related to sex, gender and sexuality. I do this work because I believe in your power to improve what's not working for you, and I believe I can offer information and resources to help make this happen. As for "advice", I would say that if you're considering therapy for any reason, it's worth talking to the therapist on the phone and getting a vibe, and then having one session to see for yourself what it's like. It's all up to you: You get to choose the therapist and what you do in the therapy session. It's YOUR life!