My approach to therapy

I view psychotherapy as an evolving and often subtle process in which, ideally, positive change and growth are experienced as a result of a consistent and supportive therapeutic relationship. The therapeutic process provides an opportunity to explore and deepen your understanding of yourself, your experiences, and your challenges. Increased insight and awareness can make more conscious choices possible, ideally leading to an increased sense of fulfillment, satisfaction, and meaning in our lives.

My therapeutic orientation is person-centered (sometimes called Rogerian or non-directive), relational, and psychodynamic. My style as a therapist is empathetic, supportive, and collaborative. We may consider how your perspectives have been shaped by your experiences in relationship with others, especially your earliest relationships. My hope and belief is that with this understanding, constructing new ways of relating to self and others becomes possible, and may lead to a greater sense of freedom, authenticity, and agency. I also acknowledge that not everyone considers the past to be an important part of understanding what is experienced in the present, and while I may offer suggestions, I will trust your own wisdom about what is most helpful for you to explore about the past, as well as any other suggestion that I offer. I see you as the expert of your own life, and part of my therapeutic orientation is to emphasize and support your own ways of knowing.

If you choose to work with me, I will be curious about the way that we relate to one another during our sessions, and how that may inform our work together as well as your experiences in other relationships. My goal is to provide a therapeutic relationship in which you feel deeply understood, seen, and accepted. My hope is that such an experience supports a deepening understanding and appreciation of who you are, and how you may endeavor to create the changes you desire.

I also integrate other approaches in my work, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), particularly for OCD and related concerns, which often benefit from more concrete, skills-based interventions.

My areas of focus include Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), anxiety, depression, grief and loss, self exploration and identity concerns, major life transitions, and disordered eating and body image concerns.

If you have any questions about my approach, I welcome you to reach out to me with your questions or to schedule a free fifteen minute consultation.