Humanistic Psychology is my theoretical foundation and its pillars are the fundamental belief in human potential, the healing power of genuine caring, and honest relationship.  At the heart of psychotherapy is the healing that comes from what Carl Rogers called "unconditional positive regard" which emphasizes non-judgment. This is what we strive for to encourage change and growth.  

Therapy is co-creating the space to focus with intention (and without judgment) on what you want to make right in your life. It’s about making changes in how you think and act so that you shed those bad habits that are keeping you feeling stuck.  It’s about balance; increasing the factors in your life that help you to feel strong and good about who you are and where you’re going, and managing the challenges we all face with grace so that who you are remains true to your beliefs and values as a human being.

There is so much that we can attune ourselves to that will energize us and keep us going despite what might be going on around us. Doing the work of therapy includes giving ourselves the gifts of space and time to go within to find strength, peace, love and lightness so that we can bring that spark to our loved ones and all those around us. I was fortunate to have found someone that I could do this work with many years ago. She taught me the value of heartfelt listening and of dedication and purpose. She encouraged me to follow my dreams and to bring this light to others.    

I continue to learn every day and use a variety of techniques and approaches depending on what the individual needs. The ultimate goal is to build a house that can weather any storm. My goal as a therapist is to foster the strength and resources needed to create the life you seek, and to manage the challenges that might come your way. I have found value in many of the different theoretical orientations of psychology and they inform my work. But it is the clients' needs that inform my interventions. I foster resilience with my clients by using a Positive Psychology approach. My clients learn to successfully make changes in their lives whether it is their health, relationships, career, or to manage symptoms associated with problems including depression, anxiety, or other health challenges.

I work holistically and respect the multiple dimensions of your life. I do use evidence-based interventions strategically to include CBT, Narrative Therapy, Trauma-focused CBT, and other techniques including problem-solving, motivational interviewing, behavioral activation, relaxation techniques, mindfulness, and clinical hypnosis. There are others that I am still exploring as I never forget that each person is unique and may respond better to other forms of treatment such as art, music or movement therapy, dream analysis, and sand tray. I have many trusted colleagues who are experts in these areas and are available for either consultation or referral as necessary for my clients.    

THE ONLY DIFFERENCE BETWEEN STUMBLING BLOCKS AND STEPPING STONES IS THE WAY IN WHICH WE USE THEM