Areas of Expertise
Men's Issues
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In my work, I understand that many men face unique challenges in expressing vulnerability and addressing emotional needs, often due to societal expectations that discourage openness and emphasize self-reliance. Many men grow up believing they should “never be weak,” a narrative that can limit genuine connection, self-understanding, and happiness. This belief can make it challenging to communicate true feelings and fears, leaving some men feeling isolated and compelled to overachieve as a way to mask emotional pain or avoid mistakes. I work with clients to address these struggles through a trauma-informed, supportive approach, helping them slow down, explore emotions, and gain a sense of control. Using evidence-based methods—including CBT, REBT, DBT, Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT), and mindfulness techniques—clients learn to manage stress, communicate authentically, and build resilience. By focusing on the body’s response to stress and exploring personal narratives, I support men in developing a healthier, more empowered relationship with themselves and their emotions.​
LGBTQIA+
In my work with the LGBTQ+ community, I strive to honor and embrace the diverse range of identities that go well beyond the commonly recognized spectrum. I understand the depth and richness of these experiences, shaped by age, race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, education, and spiritual beliefs. Unfortunately, these identities are often met with discrimination, which can lead to feelings of self-doubt, negative self-perceptions, and trauma. My approach is grounded in Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), which centers on creating a compassionate, safe space where you can process emotions, gain insight, and experience transformative healing. AEDP helps us address trauma at a deep, experiential level, allowing space for previously unexpressed feelings to surface in a supportive environment. This, combined with a trauma-informed perspective, enables me to help you reconnect with your strengths, challenge negative self-narratives, and build a sense of self that reflects your true identity. Working together, we’ll explore the unique aspects of your experience, developing a personalized treatment plan that prioritizes your needs, fosters resilience, and celebrates your individuality.
Trauma
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Trauma symptoms can emerge when life events overwhelm our emotional, physical, mental, and spiritual capacity, leading to feelings of confusion, disorganization, and even cycles of avoidance. This distressing experience often keeps individuals restless, haunted by flashbacks or nightmares, as their bodies and minds attempt to process and manage the trauma. Drawing on Judith Herman’s Stages of Recovery, I begin by establishing a foundation of safety, where clients can start to feel secure and grounded. From there, we move into remembrance and mourning, a phase where past experiences are safely recalled and honored, creating space for grief and acknowledgment. Inspired by Bessel van der Kolk’s *The Body Keeps the Score*, I help clients reconnect with their bodies and explore the physical imprints trauma has left, guiding them toward self-awareness and physical self-regulation. In the reintegration phase, we explore ways to move forward with resilience and self-compassion, weaving Brené Brown’s research on vulnerability and connection into the process. Together, we’ll embrace vulnerability as a strength, helping you build authentic connections with yourself and others. Through this tailored, compassionate approach, I support each client in healing from trauma, regaining agency, and fostering a meaningful, fulfilling life. I encourage you to reach out for a complimentary consultation to discuss how we can approach your healing together.
Relationship Counseling
My approach is guided by Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP) and the Gottman Method, both of which emphasize creating a safe and supportive environment where emotions can be explored to foster genuine healing. AEDP provides a framework for addressing the underlying patterns that may block connection, allowing us to establish a foundation of safety and stability in your relationship. Using the Gottman Method, we build on this foundation by identifying and reinforcing the elements that make relationships thrive—such as effective communication, conflict management, and mutual respect. Drawing from The Body Keeps the Score, I help couples explore how past experiences may shape present reactions, deepening your awareness of both your own and your partner’s emotional world.
With tools from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), we focus on developing compassionate, accepting relationships with each other’s thoughts and emotions, guiding you to stay committed to actions that align with your shared values. Inspired by Brené Brown’s work, we address shame-based patterns and encourage vulnerability as a strength in building authentic connection. Throughout our work, I integrate practices like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT) to help reframe unhelpful narratives while incorporating mindfulness techniques to support emotional regulation. Together, we work toward a deeper, more fulfilling connection by creating lasting changes that enhance resilience, understanding, and intimacy in your relationship.
Addictions-Post-Treatment and Continuing Care
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​With over a decade of experience in addiction treatment, my approach centers on supporting clients who are in or beyond the “Contemplation Stage” of change, recognizing there is a problem and considering steps forward. Using Judith Herman’s Stages of Recovery as a foundation, we begin by creating a sense of safety, crucial for addressing the deeper emotional wounds often underlying addiction. Building on Bessel van der Kolk’s insights from *The Body Keeps the Score*, we work together to understand how past experiences have affected both mind and body, recognizing that trauma is often a root cause in addiction. I help clients reconnect with their bodies, develop self-regulation skills, and explore the physical and emotional imprints of trauma. Integrating Brené Brown’s research on vulnerability, we cultivate self-compassion and learn to embrace openness as a pathway to genuine connection and healing. For those who have completed in-patient or intensive day treatment, our work focuses on developing personalized skills to navigate life beyond treatment. By combining skills-based training, relapse prevention, and support tailored to the individual, we address the deeper challenges and beliefs that can hinder long-term sobriety, ultimately helping clients build balanced, fulfilling lives.