My goal with clients is somewhat dualistic. First, we address your current goals by implementing innovative, experiential techniques; and second, I collaborate with in discovering your highest potential, so transformation is real and lasting.

I have multiple approaches to counseling depending   upon your needs and goals. With your consent, I may use a variety of modalities-from traditional to alternative--during our sessions, including but not limited to: deep breathing and relaxation, EMDR, solution-focused, behavior modification, cognitive behavioral, meditation/mindfulness, heart-math, expressive, transpersonal, talk, Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), ceremony,  journaling, play, role-playing, and art. I see the counseling process including thoughts, actions, behaviors, physical body and spirit, and I firmly believe that your answers are within yourself, my role is to guide you (or your child/loved one) inward.

Discovering how each of us is so unique and capable of change, as well as how profoundly alike we are with so many strengths, is part of the core of my counseling beliefs. It is because of this holistic belief, that I have incorporated such a variety of educational tools in my repertoire. This is a process designed especially for you, with your input and comfort level. Your input is not only valued, but is a necessary component of the counseling relationship.  Below you will find brief descriptions of the some of the modalities I may incorporate into our sessions, with your consent.

 Client-Centered Therapy

Developed by Carl Rogers in the 1940s, the client-centered method is based on the empowering idea that you hold the answers to your problems, not the therapist or doctor. My job, then, is to carefully listen and strive to understand you, so that you can tap into your natural ability to grow. Client-centered therapy helps you live in the present moment and focus on changing your personality, rather than on the origins of your personality structure.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

This therapy is based on the idea that psychological distress surfaces because of the way that a person cognitively structures experiences that are based on past behavior, our family and other significant authority figures, our social environment, and expectations of our future. Cognitive-Behavioral therapy strives to adjust the way you process information, which leads to improved thinking and behavior.

Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT)

EFT is a methodology drawing on neuro-scientific research to release trauma, phobias, unwanted behavioral patterns and limiting beliefs. This method focuses on self-acceptance and the changing of neural pathways that may be causing disturbances.

Expressive Therapies

Expressive therapies involve simple art materials  and tools, or various means of expressing feelings in images.  The act of creating art is therapeutic and useful in exploring the self. We may explore what you see in the art piece and give voice to various images as parts of the self. 

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an integrative therapuetic approach that has been extensively researched and proven effective for the treatment of trauma and other psychological issues.  EMDR is a set of standardized protocols that incorporates elements from many different treatment approaches. To date, EMDR has helped an estimated two million people of all ages relieve many types of psychological stress. EMDR involves recalling a stressful past event and “reprogramming” the memory in the light of a positive, self-chosen belief, while using rapid eye movements to facilitate the process.

At the time of a traumatic event, strong emotions interfere with our ability to completely process the experience and one moment becomes “frozen in time.” Recalling the traumatic event may feel as though you are reliving the event all over again because the images, smells, sounds, and feelings are still there and can be triggered in the present. When activated, these memories cause a negative impact on our daily functioning and interfere with the way we see ourselves, our world and how we relate to others. EMDR therapy appears to directly affect the brain, allowing the individual to resume normal functioning while no longer reliving the images, sounds, and feelings associated with the trauma. The memory is still there, but it is less upsetting.

After EMDR processing, clients generally report that the emotional distress related to the memory has been eliminated, or greatly decreased, and that they have gained important cognitive insights. These emotional and cognitive changes usually result in spontaneous behavioral and personal change, which are further enhanced with continued EMDR practices. The above information originated from emdria.org.

HeartMath®

HeartMath is a scientifically proven technique that is generally simple to learn and use, and aims to reduce stress and anxiety while maintaining cognitive and emotional clarity. The HeartMath system was developed by Doc Childre, a researcher and consultant, over many years. In 1991, he founded the Institute of HeartMath, an organization that teaches the techniques, develops new applications, and conducts scientific research.

Therapuetically, as well as in your day-to-day living, HeartMath techniques are helpful for managing anxiety and ceasing repeated or invasive thoughts. When you become adept at stopping the thoughts, you will find that you can hear the strength of your compassionate heart. 

Meditation

Many people have wondered exactly meditation is and how it works. There are many different answers to that question. At its core, meditation is the act of clearing the mind of external and internal distractions to achieve a goal. The process is incredibly personal and will change for each person based on their personal ideas and beliefs of meditation. A simple explanation of meditation could be the "act of focusing ones energies inwardly, to promote growth." The origin of the word "meditation" means to use one's mind to heal (mind and/or body) and gain insight and wisdom.

Play Therapy

Generally for children ages 3 to 11, play therapy is a form of counseling that relies on play to help communicate with children and assess their mental health. Children tend to develop cognitive skills before language skills, making play an effective way to understand a child. I may observe  your child playing with toys--such as playhouses, puppets and dolls--to understand their behavior and determine our goals.

Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)

Solution-focused therapy, sometimes called "brief therapy," focuses on what you would like to achieve through therapy and your goals, rather than on your past or present troubles or mental health issues. I will help you envision the future you desire, and then decide on both the small and large changes necessary for you to realize your vision. I will focus on the successes you experience, and encourage you to build on your strengths, rather than remain in the confines of problems or limitations.

Talk Therapy

Talk therapy is the classical style of therapy in which we have a conversation about your feelings and issues, where feedback, validating and mirroring may be involved. In this style of therapy, the client-therapist relationship is very important, as is trust and interacting with positive regard.

Transpersonal Therapy

Transpersonal therapy emphasizes the spiritual aspects of your development. We may work on helping you cultivate a greater sense of connectedness with others, with nature, and with a higher spirit.