There is no one-size fits all approach to therapy. Decades of research on therapy efficacy tells us that our relationship matters so more than the theories I use. That said, there are amazing theories that explain why and how people change behaviors and patterns. I practice from a constructivist, narrative, and post-modern lens, which is a fancy way of saying that if you work with me, we will explore and try to make sense of the layers that make you … you! These layers also include your family, the immediate community around you, but greater systems at play (power, privilege, and marginalization/empowerment). I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), an evidence based practice (aka something that is thoroughly researched) for shifting unhelpful thought patterns. I also utilize Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), a framework that challenges us to go beyond insight into our problems by empowering small shifts and changes. I also incorporate Mindfulness and strategies of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to help clients with emotional regulation and distress tolerance.

Our struggles do not define us. The key to shifting unhealthy patterns starts with realizing that we are not our patterns. This shift often starts with our language. I am depressed becomes I experience sadness. I have anxiety becomes I experience worry when — This is more than semantics and grammar, it’s a framework for how we navigate our world.