Awareness and Change
Unresolved past issues and excessive stressors can cause a myriad of emotional, behavioral and physical ailments. Having awareness of your thoughts, beliefs, feelings, and behaviors will facilitate greater understanding of why you do the things you do, and will in turn help you make the changes needed to live a happier life.
Reconnect with Your True Self
While it is important to examine thoughts, beliefs, feelings, and behaviors, it’s also helpful to take a comprehensive look at other aspects of what makes you who you are. For example, exploring your spiritual beliefs and world view is important because living incongruent to your beliefs can cause division within the psyche. We will also examine how you hold emotions in your body, e.g., jaw clenching, tense shoulders, shallow breathing. (Are you aware of your breathing? Many people aren’t!) We will also explore what depletes your emotional and physical energy as well as what vitalizes your body, your mind, and your spirit. Although you are probably quite familiar with these things about yourself, discussing them in-depth enhances mindfulness and paves the way to your greater well-being.
Therapeutic Modalities
No person or situation is exactly alike, therefore a one-size therapy technique does not fit all. Because of this, I am eclectic in my practice and use evidence-based, strengths-centered approaches as well as energy psychology to help you achieve lasting wellness.
Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR)
Structured treatment approach using bi-lateral eye movement that simulates REM sleep. It is used to decrease or eliminate negative effects of traumatic memories, and to cognitively restructure thoughts. Probably the most scientifically researched approach.
Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT; Tapping)
Helps reset your energy flow and reduce physical pain and emotional distress. Sometimes referred to simply as “tapping” or “psychological acupressure,” this brief intervention combines elements of exposure therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and somatic stimulation of acupressure points on the face and body.
Diaphragmatic Breathing
When done with intention, it can help regulate the Autonomic Nervous System, thus reducing anxiety and depression. This is especially helpful when combined with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (see below).
Nature Based
At times, nature calls during a counseling session! Guided activity outside allows you to connect with your surroundings and reduce stress. Research has shown that microbes in soil may stimulate serotonin production, leaving one feeling relaxed and content. Pretty cool, right?
Activity Therapy
Using activities to learn new coping skills, increase confidence, and connect better with others.
Artistic Expression
Using art—painting, drawing, scrapbooking, etc.—to express oneself when words are hard to find.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Traditional talk therapy to learn how to restructure thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. This is the most common psychotherapy approach.
Psychoeducation
Educational information and talking points to broaden your perspective on your circumstances, and to understand how to navigate through them in a healthy manner.
Verbal Role Play
Practice out-loud, positive communication strategy, boundary setting, and conflict resolution skills while in session.
Homework
Assigned to help you learn, grow, and heal in between your regularly scheduled sessions.
