Credentials, Certifications, & Specialties

Systems theory is an approach that views an individual's behavior and mental health within the context of the larger systems they are part of, such as family, relationships, work, and society. Instead of focusing solely on the individual, this approach examines how interactions, patterns, and dynamics within these systems influence thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of individuals and their environments, recognizing that change in one part of the system can lead to changes in other parts.

At its core, anti-oppressive systems theory recognizes how systemic inequalities and power dynamics impact mental health and relationships. Applying this to therapy, it emphasizes the importance of creating equitable, inclusive, and affirming spaces where individuals can explore their experiences free from judgment or marginalization. This approach helps uncover and address the broader societal influences that shape personal struggles.

Attachment theory suggests that early relationships with caregivers shape individuals' emotional bonds and patterns of relating throughout life. It highlights the importance of secure attachments for healthy social and emotional development. The theory posits four attachment styles: secure, anxious-preoccupied, dismissive-avoidant, and fearful-avoidant, which influence how individuals form and maintain relationships.

Attachment styles are formed through interactions with caregivers in infancy and continue to influence adult relationships and behaviors. Secure attachment is associated with greater resilience and satisfaction in relationships, while insecure attachment styles may contribute to difficulties in forming and maintaining healthy relationships. Therapy can help individuals understand and address attachment patterns to cultivate more secure and fulfilling relationships.

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a psychotherapy approach used to treat trauma-related disorders and other mental health conditions. It involves bilateral stimulation, typically through eye movements, to process distressing memories and alleviate associated symptoms.

The goal is to facilitate the brain's natural healing processes, allowing the individual to reprocess traumatic memories in a less distressing manner. EMDR has been shown to be effective in treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety disorders, depression, and other conditions. Research suggests that EMDR therapy can lead to significant symptom reduction and improvement in functioning.

Interpersonal neurobiology examines how relationships and experiences shape the brain's development and functioning. It highlights the importance of interpersonal relationships in regulating emotions, forming neural connections, and shaping mental health. Interpersonal neurobiology explores how interactions with caregivers and peers influence brain development, attachment styles, and social behaviors. It emphasizes the role of empathy, attunement, and emotional resonance in promoting healthy neurodevelopment.

The approach underscores the interconnectedness of individuals within social systems and the impact of relationships on mental health outcomes. Interpersonal neurobiology also explores the plasticity of the brain and its capacity for change throughout the lifespan. It provides a framework for understanding the neurobiological basis of therapeutic processes and the role of relationships in healing and personal growth.

Parts work, or Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, is a psychotherapeutic approach that views individuals as having multiple "parts" or subpersonalities within themselves.

These parts represent different aspects of the self, each with its own thoughts, feelings, and motivations. The therapy aims to help individuals understand and harmonize these internal parts.

Clients learn to identify and communicate with their parts through guided visualization and dialogue techniques. The therapist facilitates a compassionate and non-judgmental exploration of the internal system, helping clients uncover underlying conflicts and sources of distress. The ultimate goal is to promote self-leadership and integration, where the individual's core Self emerges as the compassionate and wise center of the internal system.

Sessions may involve visualization exercises, role-playing, and journaling to deepen understanding and integration of internal dynamics.

Person-centered therapy, also known as client-centered therapy, was developed by Carl Rogers. It emphasizes the therapist's empathetic understanding, unconditional positive regard, and genuine acceptance of the client. It focuses on the client's subjective experience and inner resources to facilitate self-discovery and growth.

The therapist creates a safe and nonjudgmental space for clients to explore their feelings, thoughts, and experiences at their own pace. The approach views clients as inherently capable of finding their own solutions and making positive changes in their lives. Therapists actively listen to clients without imposing interpretations or advice, fostering trust and self-awareness. Person-centered therapy aims to increase self-esteem, self-acceptance, and personal autonomy by honoring the client's unique perspective and values.

Relational therapy focuses on the client's current relationships and interpersonal dynamics.

It emphasizes the importance of the therapeutic relationship as a catalyst for healing and growth. Therapists work collaboratively with clients to understand relational patterns, communication styles, and attachment dynamics.

The therapy process is collaborative and non-hierarchical, with both client and therapist contributing to the exploration and understanding of relational dynamics.

Somatic Therapy combines traditional talk therapy with body-centered approaches to address trauma and promote holistic healing. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit in the therapeutic process.

Therapists help clients develop awareness of bodily sensations, emotions, and thought patterns to facilitate deeper understanding and healing. Techniques such as mindful breath, kind touch, movement, and mindfulness are integrated to regulate the nervous system and release stored tension.

It empowers clients to reclaim a sense of agency and safety within their bodies, fostering greater self-compassion and empowerment.